Taierzhuang Ancient Town is located in Taierzhuang District, Zaozhuang City, Shandong Province, at the key section of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. It is a national 5A-level tourist attraction and part of the World Heritage site of the Grand Canal.
The town originated in the Qin and Han dynasties and flourished during the Ming and Qing dynasties, once praised by Emperor Qianlong as “The No.1 Town Under Heaven”. It is called a “living ancient canal”, preserving complete relics of old canal courses, docks and revetments. It is China’s unique ancient water town in northern China, with 15 kilometres of interconnected water alleys. Eight diverse architectural styles coexist here: northern courtyards, Huizhou-style buildings, Minnan, Lingnan and even western architecture.
In 1938, the Battle of Taierzhuang took place here, a decisive victory that greatly boosted Chinese morale during the Anti-Japanese War. The original town was heavily destroyed in the battle; today’s ancient town was reconstructed on the original foundations while keeping the historic battlefield sites.
Visitors can take wooden boat trips along the water lanes, wander stone streets and admire magnificent night views lit by red lanterns. The intangible cultural heritage performance Fire Dragon Steel Flower is a breathtaking evening show. It perfectly combines Grand Canal culture, ancient water town scenery and patriotic history.