Zhumadian, prefecture-level city in Henan, China
Zhumadian is a large city in southern Henan province with diverse terrain including hills, plains, and small mountains. It spreads across a wide area and blends urban streets with rural farmland, where local markets, temples, and public squares form the heart of daily activity.
During the Eastern Zhou period, Zhumadian served as a center of the ancient Cai state, and traces of this history remain in older parts of the city. Several towns in the surrounding area still carry the Cai name, keeping alive the memory of this ancient political power.
The city holds deep ties to the legend of Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai, a famous love story known across China that is celebrated through local festivals and performances. Monuments and scenes honoring these characters appear throughout the city, shaping how residents connect with their shared traditions.
The best time to visit is spring or autumn when weather is mild and pleasant, as summers are hot and humid. Bring light clothing for warm months and warmer layers for winter, and prepare for rain especially during spring and summer.
The Banqiao Dam suffered a catastrophic failure in 1975, but the city and its residents recovered and rebuilt, with the event still remembered today as a symbol of resilience. This story remains part of local memory and shows how communities can overcome hardship.
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