Zhongchenhao Kiln Site

　　　　Zhongchenhao is not only an ancient village in Xuecheng District, but also the birthplace of the porcelain kiln industry in northern China. Over 1,300 years ago during the Northern Dynasties period, porcelain production began here. The village of Zhongchenhao thus became a trading hub. Through the Sui and Tang dynasties, the Five Dynasties period, and up to the Song and Yuan dynasties, this trading place flourished. Due to the development of the porcelain industry across various eras, kilns were scattered all around the village, hence the saying “seventy-two jar and tile kilns.” Porcelain production requires water, so a river runs through the village. Bridges span the river, boats vie for passage beneath them, white sails dot the water, and traffic bustles across the bridges—making the scene exceptionally lively, which is why there are records of “ten bridges.” Along the river and near the bridges, temples stood in great numbers, where devout worshippers came in an endless stream to burn incense and pray. Hence the old tale of “nine temples.” To this day, the local saying “nine temples, ten bridges, and seventy-two jar and tile kilns” continues to be passed down.