Henan Province, known as “Yu” for its abbreviation, stands in China’s central and eastern lands amidst the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River. Over 100 million people live a prosperous and contented life in this land brimming with vitality and profound history.

For five millennia in the course of Chinese history, Henan took its place at the core of politics, economy, and culture, an enduring reign spanning three thousand years. “Henan’s chronicles hold half of China’s story.” Walking through this enchanting land, one can be impressed by the essence of Chinese civilization; the journey across Henan unveils landscapes of ethereal beauty; stepping onto the glamorous land of Henan, one encounters a captivating blend of tradition and modernity.

Since the 21st century BC, more than 20 dynasties and over 200 emperors have left their legends here. Among China’s eight ancient capitals, Henan claims four: the historical capitals of Luoyang City with thirteen dynasties, Kaifeng City with seven dynasties, Anyang City of the Shang Dynasty, and Zhengzhou City of the Shang Dynasty. This land is enriched with world heritage sites such as the Longmen Grottoes, the Yin Ruins of Anyang, the Historic Monuments of Dengfeng in “The Centre of Heaven and Earth”, the Silk Road, and the Grand Canal. It’s also the birthplace of the Four Great Inventions of ancient China – the compass, gunpowder, printing, and papermaking. In addition, 73 out of the top 100 surnames of the Hundred Family Surnames originated here. The abundance of both exhibited collections and underground cultural relics here surpasses the rest of China. Stepping into Henan, one can enter an immense, profound gallery of history and culture, experiencing the broadness and depth of our heritage!

The Central Plains is filled with outstanding personages. It has brought together great minds such as Laozi, Zhuangzi, Han Feizi, and other sages of antiquity. It witnessed the birth of politicians like Shang Yang and Zhang Liang throughout different dynasties, the literary talents like Du Fu, Wu Daozi, and pioneers like Zhang Heng and Zhang Zhongjing from various fields. The tales of heroes like Yue Fei and Mulan resonated here as well. Their cultural and humanistic legacies illuminate this land, leaving an indelible mark on Chinese history.

The unsophisticated and intelligent people of Henan have attained a peak of splendor in history. The robust and powerful Shaolin Kungfu and the harmonious blend of strength and softness in Tai Chi have captivated the world. Meanwhile, a rich folk culture has flourished—Henan Opera, acrobatics, Tang tri-colored pottery, Jun Porcelain, woodblock Spring Festival paintings, and others. Henan boasts outstanding natural beauty, ranging from the grandeur of the north to the elegance of the south, and from the broadness of the east to the ruggedness of the west. Stepping into Henan is akin to entering a picturesque natural canvas, where the beauty of nature resonates with the soul.

Modern Henan shares equivalent excitement and vibrancy. With rapid development in the economy, people here are living and working in contentment, with its urban development yielding remarkable results. Creative and fashionable products are flourishing, with traditional elegance paralleling contemporary trends. Here, the fusion of antiquity and modernity creates a captivating allure. It’s a place where one can immerse themselves in rich nostalgic sentiments while also experiencing the pulse of modern fashion. Henan increasingly becomes a destination for poems and a dream-like lifestyle and a mecca for tourists.

Currently, Henan is shaping the cultural and tourism brand “Henan, Where China Began”. Leveraging its abundant cultural and tourism resources, Henan aims to become an innovation hub for the Chinese cultural inheritance, as well as a global destination for culture and tourism. This ancient yet vibrant land welcomes friends from all around the world. Embarking on a journey through Henan, one can learn the history, experience the civilization, nurture the spirit, and gain an insight into China.