Henan, this land bearing the profound essence of Chinese civilization, holds a charm that extends far beyond its over 3,000 years of recorded history. As the cradle of Chinese civilization, its uniqueness is rooted in its irreplaceable role in shaping China's splendid history and nurturing its cultural legacy.From the centers of the earliest dynasties to sacred sites of spiritual belief, Henan's story is the prologue to an epic chronicle of China's splendid history.

What truly makes Henan exceptional is its foundational role in Chinese history. The legendary Xia and Shang dynasties—the earliest known in Chinese history—are believed to have established their political centers in Henan. The Yin Ruins in Anyang serve as a powerful reminder of the Shang Dynasty's sophistication—a pivotal chapter in this splendid history. Excavations there have revealed oracle bone inscriptions, among the earliest forms of Chinese writing, offering a rare glimpse into the beliefs, rituals, and governance of early Chinese society.

Henan is also the home of Mount Song and the Shaolin Temple, two enduring symbols of this splendid history. As one of China's five sacred mountains, Mount Song has long attracted monks, philosophers, and emperors. The Shaolin Temple, founded in the 5th century, is recognized worldwide as the birthplace of Chan Buddhism and Chinese martial arts. These institutions reflect Henan's role not just in political history, but also in the intellectual and religious life of ancient China.

Culturally, Henan has nurtured traditions that weave through its splendid history. From Tang dynasty blue-and-white porcelain fragments unearthed in Gongyi to the vibrant Henan Opera, the province's cultural expressions are as diverse as its historical legacy. Rural traditions and seasonal festivals continue to carry forward a living sense of history into the present.

Modern Henan remains proud of its splendid history. Museums, such as the Henan Museum in Zhengzhou, house invaluable artifacts that trace the evolution of Chinese society from Neolithic times through to the imperial dynasties. Educational initiatives and cultural tourism are helping to revive interest in the region's heritage, making Henan a bridge between China's ancient wisdom and its future aspirations.

In every inch of Henan's soil, every artifact, and every enduring tradition, we witness the living presence of a splendid history. This legacy is not merely a record of the past but the bedrock upon which modern China continues to build. As both cradle and guardian of this splendid history, Henan ensures that the story of Chinese civilization remains vibrantly alive for generations to come.

Web editors: Shen Jianqi, Li Siyao