Luxurious Heavenly City - Song Dynasty Hangzhou

Author: Zhou Ying
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2007-01-01
Features: The Song Dynasty was a peak in the development of ancient Chinese society. It conducted a comprehensive historical summary of China's original intellectual and cultural achievements and achieved highly effective refinement and re-creation. In a sense, it also marked the end of traditional Chinese culture. Subsequent Chinese culture was largely its legacy. Therefore, studying the history of the Song Dynasty holds special significance for understanding the history of the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, as well as for the present day. This book aims to revive and recreate the historical scene of Hangzhou during the Song Dynasty, striving to create a sense of being there. This historical scene was typical during the Song Dynasty and also forms the foundation of Hangzhou's current life. It is a very real site, and the recreation of the historical scene is the result of our presence today engaging in dialogue with history. The book is divided into four parts.
Part 1 explains the historical evolution and urban layout, as well as the natural material conditions such as the Xixi Wetland, the Qiantang River, and the Grand Canal. It seeks to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the geographical context.
Part 2 introduces the achievements in economic development. From the examples cited, it can be seen that Song Dynasty Hangzhou was not only highly developed in industry and commerce but also produced highly creative economic thought.
Part 3 covers the cultural achievements. Most of these achievements were the most outstanding and highest level in China at the time, and some even stood out globally.
Part 4 introduces historical figures. It focuses on a few individuals who, in the author's view, had the most significant impact on Song Dynasty Hangzhou, with selections differing from conventional perspectives.