Interesting old commercial cities in China 2

Zhoucun Village, Zibo City, Shandong Province

Old house in Zhoucun Village [Photo: Guangzhou Daily]

Yuan Shikai, famous feudal warlord in early 20th century China, and some of his generals ordered to open Zhoucun Village, Zibo City, about 110 kilometers away from Jinan, the municipal city in Shandong Province in 1904 to international trade. It is the first bonded area in China. It has also been known as "the Home to Silk", "the Inland Harbor" or "the Golden Village".

"No Tax should be Paid Today" is carved on a hexagonal stone tablet stood in the north of the grand avenue. It records the true story of Li Huaxi, an imperial official from 17th century. After he retired, he returned to his hometown, Zhoucun Village. His love to the village made him trying best to improve local economy. He decided to make there to be a tax-free zone. This move attained an overnight fame. Wealthy merchants from all over the country gathered in searching for business opportunities.

Zhoucun was made famous by silk trade. During the Westernization Movement in late 19th century and early 20th century, silk was an essential stuff for exchange with foreign countries.

Nowadays, the past glory has still been felt in the old business streets of Zhoucun, though they have become a trade relic. It is so interesting to see that the streets got their names from what kinds of trade to which people were doing. Zhoucun also catches the talented eyes of Chinese film directors. Zhang Yimou's masterpiece "To Live" (1994) was filmed in this ancient business town.