Zhoucun: A Hidden Gem Steeped in History 🏮✨

#discoverchina Tucked away in Zibo, Shandong, Zhoucun is like a living time capsule, a place where the echoes of the Ming and Qing dynasties still linger. Once hailed as the "First Village Under Heaven", this ancient commercial town thrived on trade and now offers a rare glimpse into China’s mercantile past 🏛️💰. 🚶♀️ Strolling Through History Walking through the Ancient Commerce City, I felt like I had stepped into a period drama 🎥. The winding stone-paved alleys led me past centuries-old pawnshops, banks, and teahouses 🏯. Everywhere I looked, there were stunning brick carvings, wooden engravings, and intricate stone reliefs, each whispering tales of a bygone era. But Zhoucun isn’t just about history—it’s about culture and flavor too! 🌟 Why Visit Zhoucun? 🍵 Timeless Architecture – Impeccably preserved Ming & Qing-era buildings, making every corner Instagram-worthy 📸. 🎆 Festive Atmosphere – Winter, especially during Chinese New Year, brings vibrant temple fairs, lantern displays, and lion dances 🐉🏮. 🍪 Foodie Heaven – The legendary Zhoucun sesame biscuits are crispy, fragrant, and impossible to resist 🤤. And don’t even get me started on the steaming hotpot—pure comfort food! 🔥🍲 🎨 Cultural Heritage – Watch artisans create sugar paintings, clay figurines, and traditional candy sculptures—a true feast for the senses! 🎭👨🎨 Zhoucun is severely underrated but overflowing with charm. If you love ancient towns, rich culture, and delicious eats, this place is an absolute must-visit! 🏯✨💕 #myitinerary #familytravel