Sister Cities Chronicle: Blossoms Fill the Valley with Spring — Zaozhuang Paints a New Picture of Livable Happiness through “Park+” Model

In late spring, at the Cuizhu Valley Scenic Area in Xuecheng District of Zaozhuang, Shandong, Rosa banksiae blooms in snow-like clusters. Intertwining vines, together with bamboo groves and rugged rocks, create a picturesque scene, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors eager to enjoy the blossoms. This vibrant touch of spring ecology is a vivid reflection of Zaozhuang's efforts to promote green urban development through its "Park+" model.

In recent years, Zaozhuang has integrated the "Park+" concept into urban renewal, ecological restoration, and improvements to public well-being, transforming park green spaces have evolved from purely ornamental areas into shared spaces that combine leisure, culture, and fitness. Through models such as "Park + Public Services," "Park + Cultural Empowerment," and "Park + Sports and Fitness," the city has added 1,237 barrier-free and fitness facilities, and opened 48 shared park green spaces covering a total area of 217 hectares. Whether for seniors exercising in the morning, children playing or families enjoying leisure time, residents can now access high-quality green spaces right "at their doorstep".

While expanding functionality, Zaozhuang has also focused on enhancing the cultural value of its parks. Through innovative models like "Park + Markets" and "Park + Intangible Cultural Heritage," the city hosts over a hundred cultural and recreational events each year. Parks have thus become places not only of natural beauty but also of everyday life, serving as important venues that carry urban memory and public joy.

Green spaces are closely tied to people's well-being. Moving forward, Zaozhuang will continue to deepen the "Park+" model, optimize its ecological layout, and improve service functions, allowing more greenery to blend into urban life and building a happy Zaozhuang that is livable, business-friendly, and tourism-friendly.