Monday, September 16, 2013

China's Provinces in Brief: Henan

Henan (河南): Located in south-central China, on the lower reaches of the Yellow River, Henan takes its name from its geography. Literally translated, it means “south of the river.” The province has a rich history; Henan cities served as China’s capital in ancient times due to its rich agriculture. Agriculture remains an important part of the province’s economy.

Size: 64,479 square miles (167,000 sq. km.)

Population: 99 million in 2007.

Major Cities: Zhengzhou (capital), Anyang, Kaifeng, Luoyang.

Economy: 2008 GDP: 1.8 trillion yuan ($270 billion)

Major Crops/Industry: Agriculture, including apples and dates, grapes and walnuts. Traditional handicrafts, porcelain and jade carvings.

Historical Note: Henan Province has been called the cradle of Chinese civilization for the large number of dynasties that ruled from the province, including the first dynasty on record, the Xia Dynasty (2100-1600 BC). The province is also home to the Longmen Grottos, a stop on the ancient Silk Road and the famed Shaolin Temple and its monks who specialize in Shaolin martial arts.

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