Neolithic days of ancient city

Zhengzhou is one of China's oldest capital cities. During the legendary Shang dynasty, when kings rose up out of the Neolithic period and created a civilisation that left behind oracle bones and walled cities, Zhengzhou was the site of one of their cities, Aodu (or Bodu).

Archaeologists have found remnants of Neolithic settlements outside Zhengzhou, including the walls of an ancient city that can still be seen in the Shang dynasty ruins monument in the Guancheng district of the city.

After the Shang disappeared, the Zhou and Sui established great civilisations centred in Henan province, and Zhengzhou was a vital urban area for these dynasties and an important granary for the ruler's armies.

Zhengzhou is located on the southern bank of the Yellow River, which contributed to the city's importance during the early years of Chinese civilisation. During the Tang, Sui and Song dynasties, Zhengzhou continued its role as a vital granary city, especially as the terminus point of the ancient Grand Canal.

For travellers, this ancient history is Zhengzhou's primary attraction. Besides the ruins of the Shang dynasty, there are several other relics of China's, and Zhengzhou's, former greatness that travellers can visit and explore.

One interesting location, the Songyang Academy, is just outside Zhengzhou, in the Songshan Mountains. The academy is one of the six great academies of ancient China and was awarded precious books and calligraphy from several emperors, including the Song dynasty Taizong Emperor. The academy has been closed for years, but many of the old lecture halls, teaching materials and calligraphy are on display. The world-famous Shaolin Temple is nearby, and is Henan's most popular tourist destination and pilgrimage point for kung fu enthusiasts.