2008年3月19日星期三

Zhengzhou China

Zhengzhou is the capital of the province of Henan. It was once known as Zhengxian, and is a prefecture-level city. It is located in central China, near the Yellow River and sits roughly 500 miles below Beijing. The city became an important transit hub when the Loghai and Jingjiu railroads were completed. Zhengxhou’s geographic positioning has helped in part, to lead to the current prosperity that the city enjoys. The city has a pleasant and mild climate, with summer temperatures averaging around 80 degrees Farenheit and 30 degrees Farenheit in the winter. Most tourist visit the city during the Spring and Fall months.

Zhengzhou has a rather large part of the population that lives in rural areas. In fact, nearly four million people do so. Subsequently, there is both a strong industrial and agriculture base. The city produces wheat, cotton and apples amongst other things. Zhengzhou also has a strong industrial presence and has been for nearly 60 years. The city is a strong producer of textiles, cigarettes, tractors, processed meats and electric equipment.

Like many cities in China, Zhengzhou has an extensive history. It was once the capital city of the Shang Dynasty, dating back to 16th century B.C. Pottery unearthed in the area is believed to be the oldest porcelain ever found in the country. Other destinations of historical significance include the Shaolin Temple where it is believed that Shaolin Dong Fu was born. One can visit the temple and watch live displays. For those interested in Chinese education, Songyang Shuyuan provides one with a realistic glimpse of what ancient Chinese education must have looked like. There are also many old tombs, temples and sites of ancient battles for the history buffs to enjoy.

Zhenghzhou is an easy city to travel in and out of as well as through, because it is the transit hub for central China and subsequently possess great transportation infrastructure. There are also affordable and comfortable accommodations throughout the city. And although Zhenghzhou is the capital of the province of Henan, it is not really a tourist town, but mainly an industrial one.

For those interested in a little bit of culture, one can pay a visit to the Dong Wu Yuan zoo or visit the Henan Museum which has prehistoric artifacts and items from many of the Dynasties, most notably from the Qing Dynasty.

Zhenghzhou is a rapidly growing city, but not necessarily a touristy one. It has a strong industrial and agricultural base and that seems to be both its’ strength and focus.