Ningbo was known as Mingzhou in ancient times, serving as the eastern departure port of the Maritime Silk Road and a city with independent planning status under the state budget. Popular attractions include Tianyi Pavilion (China's oldest existing private library, featuring elegant gardens), the Old Bund (a century-old waterfront with European architecture and dazzling night views), Xuedou Mountain (site of the Maitreya Buddha, with waterfalls and ancient temples), and Dongqian Lake (Zhejiang's largest freshwater lake, ideal for cycling around the lake). Local delicacies include soft and sweet Ningbo Tangyuan, fresh and savoury red-crusted raw crab, crispy and tender fried tofu skin-wrapped yellow croaker, and plump Ninghai razor clams, all showcasing the fresh and flavourful character of Yong cuisine.