Anyang安阳

Overview

Anyang is where oracle bone script was discovered in 1899, revealing the Shang civilization. Yinxu is China's first documented ancient capital, where the world's largest bronze vessel (Houmuwu Ding) was found. The Zhouyi originated at Youli Castle in Tangyin. The Red Flag Canal, dug on cliff faces in the 1960s, is called the '8th wonder of the world'.

Key Facts

Top Attractions

Yinxu Ruins

World Heritage Site, China's first documented ancient capital. Houmuwu Ding (832.84kg, world's largest bronze vessel) and thousands of oracle bones were unearthed here.

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National Museum of Chinese Writing

World's only national museum dedicated to writing, showcasing the evolution from oracle bones to modern Chinese characters.

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Red Flag Canal

Artificial canal dug on Taihang cliff faces in the 1960s, 1500km long, called the '8th wonder of the world' and 'man-made sky river'.

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Youli Castle

Birthplace of the Zhouyi (Book of Changes). King Wen of Zhou was imprisoned here and derived the Zhouyi. China's first documented state prison site.

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Food & Snacks

Daokou Roast Chicken

Famous specialty from Daokou Town, started in Qing dynasty. As famous as Beijing duck and Jinhua ham. Crispy skin, tender meat.

Flat Noodle Stew

Anyang specialty breakfast, stewed flat noodles with greens, tofu and pig blood, with chili oil.

Pizha (Sweet Potato Jelly)

Anyang specialty, sweet potato starch jelly sliced and fried golden, dipped in garlic sauce, a local favorite.

Festivals & Events

World & Intangible Heritage

• Yinxu (2006) — UNESCO listed 2006, China's first documented ancient capital, where Houmuwu Ding and oracle bones were unearthed.
• Oracle Bone Script (2017) — Oracle bone script is China's earliest mature writing system, listed in Memory of the World Register 2017.

Practical Tips