The Henan Province Culture and Tourism Department has officially launched a new online exhibition titled Henan, Where China Began: Journey of Civilization Light. This immersive digital showcase explores the origins of Chinese civilisation while highlighting the cultural and historical significance of Henan.
Henan, often referred to as the cradle of Chinese civilisation, plays a central role in China’s ancient history, and this exhibition aims to illustrate its importance through five distinct chapters. Each section is meticulously crafted to present various aspects of the region’s history, from its early cities to its influence on philosophy, art, and martial arts.
The exhibition’s chapters include From the Central Plains to China, which explores how Henan evolved from a regional centre into the heart of Chinese civilisation. From City-State to Kingdom delves into the development of early political structures, while From Writing to Philosophy looks at the emergence of written language and key philosophical traditions. The chapters From Art to Kung Fu and From Henan to the World showcase the region’s rich cultural contributions, including its globally recognised influence on martial arts, particularly Kung Fu, and its artistic legacy.
Using cutting-edge technology, the Journey of Civilization Light exhibition combines digital innovation with cultural storytelling. Visitors to the online platform can experience 3D scenography and animated walkthroughs, providing a more immersive and interactive journey through Henan’s historical landmarks. These elements bring to life the province’s ancient relics, stories, delicacies, and natural landscapes, offering a vivid and dynamic way to explore the past.
The exhibition is designed not only to highlight Henan’s cultural heritage but also to offer a broader insight into the origins of Chinese civilisation. Each chapter contributes to answering the central question of Why China?, helping visitors understand the complex historical, social, and cultural developments that shaped the nation.
Speaking at the launch, a spokesperson for Henan’s Culture and Tourism Department said, “We are thrilled to offer this unique virtual journey through the history of Henan, a province so integral to China’s identity. Through the power of modern technology, we can now invite people from around the world to explore these ancient stories and see for themselves the historical roots of China.”
This online exhibition is part of Henan’s broader efforts to attract international attention to its rich heritage and to encourage global visitors to learn more about the province. In recent years, Henan has become a focal point for cultural tourism in China, with major archaeological sites, such as the ancient city of Anyang and the Longmen Grottoes, drawing visitors interested in the history of early Chinese civilisation.
By combining traditional cultural narratives with modern technological advancements, the exhibition aims to appeal to a diverse global audience. Visitors can access the Journey of Civilization Light by scanning a QR code that takes them directly to the exhibition’s website, where they can begin their exploration.
The Culture and Tourism Department hopes that the online showcase will inspire curiosity about Henan and encourage future visits to the province, sparking a wider interest in Chinese history and culture.
