91.Shandong Heze

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For more than one thousand years, the people of Heze have continuously maintained and refined the cultivation of the peony flower. Heze, now colored with fields upon fields of the local flower, is known as “the land of peonies”. Recognized for their natural beauty and wide array of colors, the peony is seen as a symbol of peace and wealth. And while these flowers have earned the honor of becoming China’s national flower, in no place but Heze will you find 1,116 breeds of peonies this plentiful and well groomed. In fact, don’t be deterred by the fact that peonies only bloom from April to May. Heze has perfected the ability to keep peonies in bloom year round.

Of course though the fields of flowers are a great treasure, Heze offers more than just the gardener’s perfect paradise. The people of Heze take great pride in history and their contributions to the world. As such, museums and parks have been erected to glorify and explain forgotten elements of days long ago. Come and enjoy a tour of the calligraphy museum, where great displays of China’s famed writing system can be seen in full detail. Indeed the theme of the city will show itself here as well, as you are bound to find many poems and pictures detailing the beauty of the peony. Additionally you can find great pieces of artwork made from paper, as locals attempt to replicate the peony’s beauty.

There is a balance to the peace in Heze; the city celebrates a long history of martial discipline. Sun Bin, a descendent of the famous Sun Tzu, lived in Heze. It was here that he wrote a book sharing the title of his ancestor’s world-renown book, The Art of War. Though the two books are not to be confused, they are both masterpieces detailing the decisive minds of the greatest military minds of their time. Though Sun Bin’s book was thought to be lost forever, discoveries in 1972 have brought his work to life again. In honor of Sun Bin, and China’s esteemed military prowess, many locals in Heze study the art of Wushu. Literally meaning “martial arts”, Wushu consists of a various fighting styles and a strict mentality; definitely not for the faint of heart! But when you’re in the area, try to pick up a lesson or two.
Heze offers a many delights. When you’re ready, we’ll be waiting with a fresh peony in hand.

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