Ningbo

Ningbo 宁波
Sub-provincial city
Skyline of Ningbo Skyline of Ningbo
Coordinates:
Country	China
Province	Zhejiang
Area
• Total	9,816 km2 (3,790 sq mi)
Population  (2020)
• Total	8,202,000
Time zone	UTC+8 (China Standard)

Ningbo (Chinese: 宁波; pinyin: Níngbō ) is a major sub-provincial city in northeastern Zhejiang province, China. It lies south of the Hangzhou Bay and faces the East China Sea to the east. Ningbo is one of China's oldest cities, with a history dating back to the Hemudu culture in 4800 BC.

History

Ningbo has a rich history that spans over 7,000 years. The area was first settled during the Neolithic Hemudu culture, which is known for its advanced rice cultivation and pottery. During the Tang dynasty, Ningbo became an important port city, known as Mingzhou, and was a key point on the maritime Silk Road.

In the Song dynasty, Ningbo was one of the three major ports for foreign trade in China, alongside Guangzhou and Quanzhou. The city continued to thrive as a trading hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Geography

Ningbo is located in the eastern part of Zhejiang province, bordered by the East China Sea to the east, and the cities of Shaoxing and Taizhou to the west and south, respectively. The city covers an area of 9,816 square kilometers and features a varied landscape of mountains, rivers, and coastline.

Economy

Ningbo is a major economic center in China, with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, logistics, and finance. The city is home to the Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, one of the busiest ports in the world, which plays a crucial role in international trade.

The city has a strong industrial base, with key industries including textiles, machinery, electronics, and petrochemicals. Ningbo is also a hub for private enterprise and innovation, with a growing number of high-tech companies and startups.

Culture

Ningbo has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites and cultural landmarks. The city is known for its traditional architecture, including the Tianyi Pavilion, one of the oldest private libraries in China, and the Ningbo Museum, which showcases the region's history and culture.

Ningbo cuisine is famous for its seafood and fresh ingredients, with popular dishes such as Ningbo tangyuan (glutinous rice balls) and Ningbo-style seafood.

Education

Ningbo is home to several higher education institutions, including Ningbo University, which offers a wide range of programs in science, engineering, and humanities. The city also hosts the University of Nottingham Ningbo China, a joint venture with the University of Nottingham in the UK.

Transportation

Ningbo is well-connected by a comprehensive transportation network, including highways, railways, and an international airport. The Ningbo Rail Transit system provides convenient public transportation within the city.

Also see

• Zhejiang
• Hangzhou
• Shanghai
• Silk Road
• Chinese cuisine

China