Dezhou, prefecture-level city in Shandong, China
Dezhou is a major city in the northwestern part of Shandong Province, covering over ten thousand square kilometers with a population exceeding five million. The city features wide streets, busy markets, and numerous parks and green spaces scattered throughout, shaping daily life.
The city was officially established in 1950 and developed into a regional center by 1994, though its roots reach back thousands of years. The Yellow River and Grand Canal have shaped its growth as a key trading and transportation hub throughout history.
Dezhou is known for its ancient black pottery tradition spanning over four thousand years, with pieces displayed in shops throughout the city and reflecting the local identity. This craft remains visible in daily life, with its shiny, metal-like appearance representing a significant part of the community's heritage.
The city is well connected by train and road to major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, with high-speed rail enabling quick travel. The best time to explore is during spring, summer, or autumn, when weather conditions are comfortable for sightseeing.
A notable part of the city's history involves a prince from Sulu in the Philippines who arrived in the 15th century, died here, and was buried with a tomb that remains a national heritage site today. Some descendants of his family still live in Dezhou, preserving a link to this unusual international past.
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