Cradled by the middle-lower reaches of the Yellow River, Henan's landscape and legacy have been carved by its currents. The river's silt gifted fertile alluvial plains – lifeblood to dawn's agriculture and enduring settlements. Along its banks, ancient capitals Luoyang and Kaifeng rose as luminous hearts of politics, commerce, and culture, beating through dynasties.

Henan, often referred to as the cradle of Chinese civilization, has been shaped for thousands of years by the Yellow River's flow. The ancient capitals of Luoyang and Kaifeng, both located along the river, were once centers of politics, economy, and culture in imperial China. These cities witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties, from the Xia and Shang to the Song, and their prosperity was closely tied to the river's life-giving waters.

The Yellow River brought fertile soil through its loess deposits, enabling the early development of agriculture in the region. As a result, Henan became one of the first areas in China where settled farming communities emerged. This agricultural abundance allowed for population growth, the rise of cities, and the development of a complex society. The legends of the Yellow Emperor, said to be born in Henan near the river's banks, further tie Henan's identity to the mythical and historical roots of China.

Yet the Yellow River has also been a source of challenge. Its unpredictable floods, particularly in the lower reaches through Henan, have shaped both the physical landscape and the resilience of its people. Over centuries, residents of Henan have built dikes, canals, and sophisticated irrigation systems to manage the river's temperament. These efforts not only protected communities but also demonstrated the ingenuity and perseverance of Henan's people.

Today, the Yellow River remains a central figure in Henan's identity. The province is home to the Yellow River Scenic Area near Zhengzhou, where visitors can appreciate the river's grandeur and explore its historical significance. Art, literature, and even modern media often portray the Yellow River as a symbol of strength, continuity, and national spirit—qualities deeply rooted in Henan's culture.

In recent years, Henan has embraced ecological and cultural preservation efforts, aiming to restore and protect the Yellow River's legacy while promoting sustainable development. River-themed museums, educational programs, and cultural festivals ensure that the story of the Yellow River continues to inspire new generations.

As the Yellow River continues to flow through Henan, it remains a living symbol of resilience, creativity, and the enduring bond between a land and its people—a bond that has shaped China for over five millennia.

Web editors: Shen Jianqi, Li Siyao