Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town in Shenxian County, Liaocheng

Overview

Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town (张鲁回族镇) is a town under the administration of Shen County (莘县) in Liaocheng City (聊城市), Shandong Province. It is located in the western part of Shen County, bordered by Yanta Subdistrict (燕塔街道) to the east, Dongduzhuang Town (董杜庄镇) and Zudian Town (俎店镇) to the south, and the neighboring Daming County (大名县) of Hebei Province to the west. To the north, it connects with Yandian Town (燕店镇) and Dawangzhai Township (大王寨乡). Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town covers an administrative area of 82.76 square kilometers. As of 2019, the town had a registered population of 58,774.

History

Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town has undergone several administrative changes over the years:

  • 1943: It was part of the Fourth District of Xinchao County (莘朝县).
  • 1945: It became part of Shen County (莘县) under the Fourth District.
  • 1949: The town was renamed Zhanglu District (张鲁区).
  • 1958: Zhanglu was renamed Zhanglu Commune, briefly becoming part of Fan County (范县).
  • 1984: The commune system was abolished, and Zhanglu was divided into Zhanglu Town and Liuzhuang Township (刘庄乡).
  • 1987: Zhanglu Town was renamed Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town.
  • 2001: Liuzhuang Township merged with Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town.

Administrative Divisions

As of 2021, Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town governs 43 administrative villages, including:

  • East Street Village (东街村)
  • Huazhuang Village (化庄村)
  • Yingtou Village (营头村)
  • Beizhuang Village (北庄村)
  • Panzhuang Village (潘庄村)
  • Liulou Village (刘楼村)
  • Shiyuantan Village (石元疃村)

These villages form the core of Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town’s rural community, with the town government located in Zhangluji Village (张鲁集村).

Geography

Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town is located in the western part of Shen County. Its strategic location makes it a key connector between Shandong and Hebei provinces. The town spans 82.76 square kilometers and is predominantly agricultural, with its fertile land providing ample space for farming activities.

Natural Resources

The town has approximately 75,000 acres of arable land, supporting a vibrant agricultural economy.

Population

As of 2011, the total population of Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town was 56,600, with an urbanization rate of 17.6%. The majority of the population is Han Chinese, totaling 50,038 people (88.5%), while the Hui ethnic minority comprises 6,521 people (11.5%).

The gender distribution is slightly male-dominant, with 54.5% male and 45.8% female residents. The age distribution shows a relatively young population, with 65.7% of residents between the ages of 18 and 59.

Transportation

Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town is well connected by two major provincial roads:

  • Provincial Road 333
  • Provincial Road 260

These roads provide convenient access to neighboring towns and cities, making it easy to travel between Hebei and Shandong provinces. Public transportation options include local buses and taxis, and it is also possible to drive from Shen County to Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town by following the provincial highways.

How to Get There

  • By Bus: You can take a bus from Shen County or nearby cities such as Liaocheng. Buses frequently travel to Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town and neighboring towns.
  • By Car: For a more flexible option, you can drive via Provincial Roads 333 and 260. The town is approximately 30 kilometers from the center of Shen County.
  • From Hebei: Travelers coming from Hebei Province can easily access Zhanglu via Daming County, located to the west.

Travel Tips

  • Cultural Sensitivity: As Zhanglu is home to a significant Hui Muslim population, visitors should be mindful of local customs, especially regarding dietary practices. Many restaurants serve halal food, and pork is typically not available.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons to visit, as temperatures are moderate, and the countryside is lush with crops.
  • Local Markets: The town’s local markets offer a variety of fresh produce and goods, giving visitors a chance to experience the local lifestyle and purchase local products.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Name Origin

The name “Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town” comes from the village of Zhangluji (张鲁集村), where the town’s government is based.

Recognition

In May 2020, Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town was recognized for its efforts in farmland protection and received provincial honors for its contribution to the protection of agricultural resources.

With its rich history and vibrant agricultural economy, Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town represents a blend of tradition and modernity, making it a unique destination in western Shandong Province.