Zibo: A Treasure Trove of Ancient Architecture Hidden in the Hustle and Bustle

When Zibo is mentioned, many people immediately think of the incredibly popular barbecue. But as a seasoned traveler who has spent years exploring the mountains and rivers of Zibo, Shandong, I've discovered that Zibo's ancient architecture is equally captivating. This city is quietly transforming into a tourist destination. Today's Zibo is no longer the single-industry city I remember from my childhood. Despite some transportation inconveniences, its rich tourism resources are worth exploring. However, many of Zibo's tourist attractions are located in mountainous areas, and some formerly popular spots have gradually fallen into disrepair, some even unfinished, which is a real pity. Below, I'll share 18 ancient architectural sites in Zibo that I've visited. 1. Mount Emei: Located in the urban area of Boshan, there's an incredibly understated temple here. Standing outside the temple gates, you can take in a panoramic view of Boshan City, where the city's vibrant energy contrasts sharply with the temple's tranquility 🌆. 2. Xiao Nanhai (Yuexi Village): A rare water temple in Shandong. The moment you lay eyes on it, its unique architectural form, mirrored in the surrounding waters, creates an indescribable visual impact 🌊. 3. Zhao Zhixin Memorial Hall: This garden exudes a rich Jiangnan style and has always been severely underrated among Boshan's many architectural gems. Stepping inside feels like entering a gentle Jiangnan water town 🖼️. 4. Zhengjue Temple: This temple is grand and magnificent in scale. It also offers accommodation and vegetarian meals, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in temple life 🍜. 5. Ma'anshan Film and Television City: Although unfinished, its proximity to Taihe Reservoir makes the surrounding scenery exceptionally beautiful. The shimmering reservoir water complements the remaining structures of the film city, creating a unique charm 🌊. 6. Daqiao Ancient Architectural Complex: Located near Zibo Railway Station, it enjoys the reputation of "Zibo Wang Family Courtyard." The courtyard houses within the complex are neatly arranged, imbued with a rich historical charm. 7. Babao Lingshan Temple: Situated on a mountaintop deep in the mountains, surrounded by peaks, the temple appears even more magnificent against the backdrop of the mountain range. Standing beside the temple, overlooking the rolling mountains, you feel isolated from the world ⛰️. 8. Sanfo Mountain: Having been abandoned for years, it is now open again. Its natural scenery is no less impressive than other popular scenic spots, with rolling hills and lush forests 🌟. 9. Wang Yuyang's Former Residence: A well-known attraction in Zibo, it carries a profound historical and cultural heritage. Strolling through it feels like conversing with history 📖. 10. Yan Wenjiang Ancestral Hall: Hidden in Boshan City, this is a wooden structure from the Tang Dynasty. Despite the passage of time, it retains its ancient charm. 11. Guan Zhong Memorial Hall: Designed in a Han Dynasty architectural style, its unique silhouette can be seen when taking the high-speed train through Zibo 🚄. 12. Boshan Red Gate: This temple is located on Yanhe Road, accompanied by the murmuring water, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere. 13. Guanyin Ancient Temple: The temple houses a thousand-year-old ginkgo tree. Every autumn, the golden ginkgo leaves fall, creating a dreamlike wonderland. It's also very close to Babao Lingshan Temple, making it convenient to visit both 🍂. 14. Zichuan Huayan Temple: Built of brick and stone, the temple also boasts a centuries-old ginkgo tree. The rustic charm of the brick and stone blends with the vitality of the ginkgo, creating a unique atmosphere. 15. Qinglong Mountain, Quanhe Village: With a temple built halfway up the mountain, the summit offers a view of the fish-shaped village below, a unique layout that is truly remarkable 🐟. 16. Lijia Tuan Ancient Architectural Complex: One of the best-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architectural complexes in Shandong. Wandering through the ancient streets and alleys feels like traveling back in time to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. 17. Luzhong International Auto City: Its gate was originally part of a film and television city. Although unfinished, its unique architectural style still attracts many visitors 🎬. 18. Fuxing Nunnery: Located by the Xiaofu River, its red walls and yellow tiles, reflected in the river, appear particularly solemn, a tranquil place for spiritual practice.