Located in the southwestern part of Shandong Province, Ji’ning is renowned as the “Hometown of Confucius and Mencius,” the “Canal Capital,” and a cultural hub. The city encompasses 2 districts (Rencheng and Yanzhou), 2 county-level cities (Qufu and Zoucheng), 7 counties (Sishui, Weishan, Yutai, Jinxiang, Jiaxiang, Wenshang, and Liangshan), and 3 functional zones (Ji’ning National High-Tech Industrial Development Zone, Taibai Lake Provincial Tourism and Vacation Zone, and Ji’ning Economic and Technological Development Zone). Ji’ning spans an area of 11,000 square kilometers and is home to a population of 8.9 million.
A City of Rich Cultural Heritage
Ji’ning is a cradle of Chinese civilization and the birthplace of prominent historical figures, including the legendary Yellow Emperor, Confucius, Mencius, Yanzi, and Zengzi. The city boasts two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the “Three Confucian Sites” in Qufu and the Grand Canal. Additionally, Liangshan, the setting of the classic Chinese novel Water Margin, adds to the city’s cultural allure. Here, sacred sites, historical heritage, and water-town landscapes converge to create a unique cultural tapestry.
A Resource-Rich Region
Ji’ning is a resource-rich city with abundant natural reserves. The region has identified 36 types of minerals, with verified reserves for 26 of them. Coal and non-metallic construction materials are particularly significant resources, making them key economic assets for the city. The city’s Nansi Lake, covering 1,260 square kilometers, is the largest freshwater lake in northern China, further enhancing its ecological and economic importance.
A Transportation Hub
Strategically located at the golden midpoint between Beijing and Shanghai, Ji’ning serves as a major transportation hub in the Huaihai Economic Zone. High-speed rail connects Ji’ning to Beijing in just two hours and Shanghai in three. Ji’ning Airport links the city to 21 domestic destinations, while the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal flows through seven counties and districts within Ji’ning, covering a length of 230 kilometers. The city’s inland waterways can accommodate thousand-ton ships and ten-thousand-ton fleets, offering direct access to international seas via the Yangtze River. Furthermore, the China-Europe freight trains connect Ji’ning to the heart of Europe.
A City Open to the World
Ji’ning is a city with a global outlook, hosting two international industrial parks: the China-Japan-Korea Industrial Park in the High-Tech Zone and the China-Europe Industrial Park in Yanzhou. It has established sister-city relationships and cooperative ties with 29 cities across 21 countries, reflecting its commitment to international collaboration and cultural exchange.
Ji’ning warmly welcomes visitors from around the globe to explore its rich heritage, vibrant economy, and thriving international connections.