Zibo

Zibo is an industrial city in central Shandong built around ceramics, glass, chemicals and one of China's oldest histories. Its Linzi district was the capital of the powerful state of Qi during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, and its museums display the world's earliest known football (cuju). Zhoucun's preserved Ming-Qing commercial street recalls the city's role on old trade routes. Zibo is the hometown of Pu Songling, author of the classic Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio. In 2023 the city became a national sensation for its street barbecue culture, drawing millions of visitors. High-speed rail on the Jinan-Qingdao line makes it easy to reach.