Chiping district in Liaocheng, Shandong province is known as the home of China's round-bell-shaped dates (Yuanling dates). This kind of Chinese date has been planted in the area for over 3,000 years and is used as a tribute to ancient China. The dates are purplish-red, plump, sweet, rich in vitamin C and contain a small pit.

An aerial photo shows a Chinese date plantation base in Chiping district, Liaocheng, Shandong province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Freshly harvested Chiping yuanling dates [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Dried Chiping yuanling dates [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

A jujube tree is covered with Chinese dates. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]