Capitals converge in Henan
History buffs and curious travelers will find a treasure trove of historical evidence across the province, where discoveries will expand the mind and spark curiosity, Wang Ru reports.
By Wang Ru | CHINA DAILY | Updated: 2025-12-25 07:27
Youlicheng site
The Youlicheng site in Anyang is a legendary prison believed to be where King Zhou of the Shang Dynasty held Ji Chang, who later became King Wen of the Zhou Dynasty, over 3,000 years ago.
According to legend, during the decline of the Shang Dynasty, amid political struggles and military defeats, Ji was captured by King Zhou and imprisoned.
During his seven years as a prisoner, Ji devoted himself to studying I Ching, or The Book of Changes, and developed its system. As a result, the site is considered a cradle of I Ching culture and a pivotal starting point for the Western Zhou Dynasty (c. 11th century-771 BC) rule.
The site features performances that showcase legendary tales from the transitional period between the Shang and Zhou dynasties.
It also includes a temple built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) to commemorate Ji.
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