JINGZHOU | Beyond the Three Kingdoms

For many people, Jingzhou is best known through the story of “Guan Yu’s Loss of Jingzhou” in Romance of the Three Kingdoms. But the real history of Jingzhou extends far beyond the Three Kingdoms. More than two thousand years ago, this region was home to the capital of the State of Chu and became one of the most important centers of Chu culture. From King Zhuang of Chu’s pursuit of supremacy over the Central Plains to the Xiongjiazhong Chu Royal Mausoleum, the magnificent Chu King’s Chariot and Horse Pit, and the ancient city walls of Jingzhou, this city has witnessed the rise and fall of many important eras in Chinese history. In this episode, we travel through Jingzhou to explore the Chu King’s Chariot and Horse Pit, Jingzhou Ancient City, Wanshou Pagoda, Jingzhou Museum, and other historical sites. We also examine what the name “Jingzhou” truly represented during different periods of Chinese history. The familiar stories of the Three Kingdoms are only one short chapter in the city’s long history. Behind them lies the civilization of Chu—the deepest and most remarkable historical foundation of Jingzhou. If you enjoy history, travel, and culture, join me as we rediscover Jingzhou.