Seeking Qi Culture in Books: Japanese Educator Explores Zhongshuge at Haidai Tower

大众网2025-03-25 14:44

　　Recently, Japanese instructor Ayaka Matsumoto visited the landmark Haidai Tower Zhongshuge Bookstore in Zibo City, Shandong Province, embarking on a cultural exploration journey themed "In Search of Qi Cultural Charms".

　　As the largest single-structure cultural complex under the Zhongshuge brand nationwide, the Haidai Tower Zhongshuge Bookstore stands tall at 67 meters in Han Dynasty-inspired architecture by Qi Sheng Lake. Its name "Haidai" (海岱) references the geographic location of Zibo between the East China Sea and Mount Tai (岱), symbolizing the city's historical and cultural significance. The exterior resembles an unfolded historical scroll with its grandeur, while the interior design integrates motifs from Qi culture, ceramic and glazed art, and natural karst cave elements. This harmonious blend of cultural depth and architectural innovation has earned it the accolade of "China's Most Beautiful Bookstore."

　　Upon stepping into the bookstore, Ayaka was immediately captivated by the mirrored wall at the entrance adorned with three-dimensional calligraphy of Qi culture idioms like"A Single Leap to Fame"and"An Old Horse Knows the Way", paired with decorative Zibo roof tiles (瓦当). "This isn't just a bookstore—it's a living cultural museum!" exclaimed the Japanese instructor from Shandong Normal University, a Gen-Z educator born after 2000.

　　Guided by Zhongshuge staff, Ayaka explored this cultural palace floor by floor. On the first-floor hall, the spiral bookshelves and mirror-clad space created a mesmerizing visual spectacle, prompting her to pause and capture photos—experiencing the trendy allure of being a "social media influencer hotspot."

　　In front of a bookshelf themed on Qi culture, Ayaka flipped through Japanese translations of classical texts likeGuanziandYanzi's Spring and Autumn Annals. The highlight of the tour came at the cultural creative experience zone. Spotting the Japanese anime character Hatsune Miku, she remarked, "Chinese anime is super popular too! For example,Link Clickbecame a huge hit in Japan after its recent release!"

　　"I've lived in Shandong for two and a half years now," Ayaka shared. "During this time, I've discovered the incredible diversity of Shandong cuisine and its rich historical culture. This trip to Zibo has deepened my understanding of this historic city! I can't wait to return and learn even more about Zibo's stories."

　　Standing by Qi Sheng Lake, this cultural lighthouse uses literature as its vessel, carrying the wisdom and aesthetics of Eastern civilization towards a broader world.