Taierzhuang Ancient City is located in Taierzhuang District, Zaozhuang City, Shandong Province. As a national 5A-level tourist attraction, it covers 2 square kilometers with 500,000 square meters of construction area. Originally built during Qin and Han dynasties, developed in Tang and Song, and flourished in Ming and Qing, it's known as "The First Village under Heaven". An important commercial port along the Grand Canal, Taierzhuang was once a thriving land-water hub where northern and southern cultures merged. Reconstruction began in 2008, making it China's largest ancient city restoration project.
History and Culture
With over 2,000 years of history, Taierzhuang reached its peak during Ming and Qing dynasties, featuring eight wharves, twelve granaries, and thirty temples, earning the title "Living Fossil of Canal Culture". The 1938 Battle of Taierzhuang destroyed the city in war flames - the first major victory of Chinese forces in the Anti-Japanese War.
The architecture blends northern courtyards, southern Shandong dwellings, Huizhou style, and water-town features, embodying the canal culture's inclusiveness. Preserved historical relics include ancient wharves, canals, alleys from Ming-Qing periods, and 53 battle sites.
The reconstructed city maintains complete urban texture and architectural styles from Ming-Qing periods, called "Living Ancient Canal" and "The Only Remaining Heritage Village along Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal" by UNWTO.
Main Attractions
Battle of Taierzhuang Memorial Hall
Comprehensively displaying the 1938 battle history through artifacts, photos, and videos, the hall vividly recreates this famous campaign. Housing numerous precious relics and historical photos, it's a national patriotic education base.
Canal Culture Exhibition Hall
Systematically presenting the Grand Canal's history and culture, especially its impact on Taierzhuang's development. Models, artifacts, and multimedia showcase commercial activities and folk customs along the canal.
Ancient Canals and Wharves
Preserving 3km of ancient canals and 8 wharf sites, visitors can cruise to imagine the bustling scene of "merchant ships in lines, sails like forests". Shops along the banks recreate the canal port's former prosperity.
Tianhou Palace
Built during Yongzheng reign of Qing Dynasty for sailors and merchants to worship Mazu. The grand architectural complex with exquisite carvings demonstrates superb craftsmanship. Grand sacrificial ceremonies are held annually on Mazu's birthday (23rd day of 3rd lunar month).
Ancient City Wall
Originally built during Wanli reign of Ming Dynasty, the 3km-long, 9m-high wall has four gates. It played crucial defensive roles in the 1938 battle, with some sections well-preserved.
Cuisine
Canal Carp
Featuring carp from the Grand Canal with tender meat, prepared in various ways like braised or sweet-sour. "Canal Sweet-Sour Carp" is most famous - crispy outside, tender inside with balanced sweet-sour flavor.
Taierzhuang Baked Cake
A traditional local pastry - crispy outside, soft inside with distinct layers, available in sweet and savory versions - one of the city's most representative snacks.
Zaozhuang Spicy Chicken
A southern Shandong specialty using free-range roosters stir-fried with abundant dried chilies - aromatic, spicy and uniquely flavorful.
Ticket Information
Admission: ¥160/person covering all attractions. Seniors over 60 and students get half-price with valid ID; children under 1.4m free. Opening hours: 8:00-22:00 (light show requires separate ticket).
Recommended Routes
Historical one-day route: Battle Memorial → Canal Culture Hall → Canal Cruise → Tianhou Palace → City Wall. Ideal for history enthusiasts.
Night leisure route: Night views → Light show → Bar Street → Snack Street. Perfect to experience the city's nocturnal charm.
Transportation
- High-speed rail: To Zaozhuang or Xuzhou East Station, then transfer by bus/taxi
- Air: Nearest airport Xuzhou Guanyin International, with direct buses
- Bus: Take B10 or B20 rapid transit from Zaozhuang downtown
- Drive: Exit at Taierzhuang on Beijing-Taipei Expressway, ~10 minutes along Canal Avenue
Must-See Attractions
- Battle Memorial: Learn wartime history and patriotism
- Canal Cruise: Experience "Water Town North of Yangtze" charm
- Tianhou Palace: Feel Mazu worship culture along the canal
- Night Views: Admire the illuminated ancient city
- Snack Street: Taste authentic southern Shandong delicacies
Travel Tips
- Best seasons are spring and autumn with pleasant weather
- Allocate two days - historical sites by day, night views after dark
- Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking
- Rent Hanfu costumes for time-travel photo experiences
- Try local specialties like canal carp and Taierzhuang baked cakes
Important Notes
- Protect ancient structures - no marking on walls
- Watch steps on cobblestone paths in some areas
- Wear life jackets when boating for safety
- Respect local customs and visit courteously
- Secure belongings during peak seasons with crowds