Within the scenic area, there are various transportation options for visitors, including rowboats, motorboats, pleasure boats, and sightseeing shuttles. The most unique experience is the rowboat, which takes you through the scenic reeds for about 30 minutes at a price of ¥99 per person. This boat ride, which follows the water route into the park, includes the entrance ticket. Tickets can be purchased at a small pavilion staffed with ticket sellers right outside the entrance. There are other types of boats available, but their operation depends on the wind conditions and the number of visitors that day.
(Do not be persuaded by elderly women trying to sell boat rides before you enter the park—they operate boats that are not part of the official scenic area.)For sightseeing shuttles, Route A costs ¥101 and Route B costs ¥201. It’s recommended to stick with Route A, as the latter part of Route B feels sparse and wild with little to see. The shuttles stop at each station, but Route B shuttles are less frequent, so if you get off midway, you might have to wait a long time for the next one.
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海岱楼钟书阁
Haidai Tower is a cultural landmark that embodies the essence of Shandong's traditional culture. For the best daytime photos, head to the peak of Shangxian Bridge, where you can capture stunning views of the tower. Haidai Tower lights up around 18:30 and turns off at 23:00. If you’d like to capture the moment it lights up, be sure to arrive a bit early. The light show starts after 20:00 and is truly impressive. For souvenirs, head to the B1 level of Haidai Tower.
中国陶瓷琉璃博物馆
As one of the largest and most comprehensive modern museums dedicated to ceramics and glazed glass in China. The museum spans four floors, with two galleries on the first floor and around six galleries on each of the remaining floors. Here, visitors can explore ceramic artworks from the Neolithic era to the present, as well as exquisite glassware from around the world and innovations brought by technological advancements. When you arrive, you can store bags or large items at the front desk and pick up a guide map to help you explore.
八大局步行街
This is a pleasant spot for a leisurely stroll, with old buildings on both sides of the street. Here, you’ll find plenty of authentic Zibo snacks and unique handmade craft shops—enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. The area isn’t very large, but has winding alleys and a lively crowd, and there are many long-established stores that may be of interest to you. If it’s your first time in Zibo, Badaju could be a great place to start.
唐库文创园
Tangku Cultural and Creative Park was converted from the original Mashang Warehouse of Zibo’s Sugar and Wine Station, which used to be a national sugar reserve storage facility—hence the name “Tangku.” Admission is free, but the location is a bit out of the way. From the train station, it’s about a 30-minute bike ride or around 20 minutes by car. If you’re visiting on a weekend, it’s best not to drive in, as parking is very limited.
The park has a variety of spots, including a cat café, coffee shop, ceramics shop, bakery, tea house, a crayfish restaurant, and a store for handmade goods. Markets are held only on weekends and holidays, typically from 14:00-20:00 with stalls run by local craft enthusiasts selling things like handmade items, milk tea, and cakes. If you want to experience the local lifestyle, you can even apply for a stall yourself by registering through Tangku’s WeChat public account. There’s a small stall fee, around a few dozen yuan per day, which is quite reasonable. However, stalls should feature unique, handmade, or cultural items—wholesale and finished goods aren’t accepted.
孝妇河湿地公园
Known for its expansive water surfaces and natural wetland landscapes, it’s a popular spot for nature lovers and families to enjoy a peaceful day outdoors. The park features walking and biking trails, along with seasonal fountain shows, making it a great place for relaxation and active exploration. Watch out for mosquitoes, though. There are music fountain shows; check the schedule in advance if you want to be guaranteed to experience one.
千佛寺
Thousand Buddha Temple is located across from the north gate of Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City, offering a stark contrast to the bustling crowds of the marketplace. Its modest exterior can easily be overlooked. However, inside lies a charming garden surrounded by six grand halls, forming a historic architectural complex where Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism coexist harmoniously.