The capital of the Cao Wei Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period, home to Guan Yu's legendary residence and China's most famous retail phenomenon.
Xuchang, located in central Henan Province, was the political and military capital of the Cao Wei Kingdom during the turbulent Three Kingdoms period (220-280 AD). It was here that the legendary warlord Cao Cao built his power base.
The city's richest heritage revolves around the Three Kingdoms era — the Spring and Autumn Tower where Guan Yu read the classics, and Baling Bridge where he famously parted ways with Cao Cao.
In modern times, Xuchang has become famous for a different reason: Pang Dong Lai, a local retail chain that has achieved legendary status across China for its extraordinary customer service and employee treatment.
Xuchang's history dates back to the Zhou Dynasty, but its golden age came during the Three Kingdoms period. In 196 AD, Cao Cao welcomed the Han Emperor Xian to Xuchang and established it as the de facto capital.
After the fall of the Wei Kingdom, Xuchang remained an important regional center. During the Tang and Song dynasties, it was known for ceramics and agriculture.
In the 20th century, Xuchang developed into a modern industrial city. The rise of Pang Dong Lai in the 1990s turned it into a retail pilgrimage site.
Xuchang's economy has traditionally relied on agriculture and light manufacturing. The city is a major producer of tobacco products, textiles, and electrical equipment.
The retail sector has become a surprising highlight. Pang Dong Lai, a Xuchang-based retail chain, has become a national phenomenon known for employee-friendly policies and exceptional customer service.
The city is also a center for renewable energy equipment manufacturing, including wind turbines and solar panels. The Yanling County area is known for horticulture, especially wax plum (chimonanthus) production.
Discover the culinary treasures of Xuchang, from traditional street food to imperial cuisine.
Three Kingdoms heritage and modern Xuchang in one day.
Deep dive into Three Kingdoms history and local culture.
Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport is about 50km away (40min by car).
Xuchang East Station on the Beijing-Guangzhou HSR: Zhengzhou 20min, Beijing 2.5h.
Buses and taxis cover the city. Biking is also popular on flat terrain.
Available throughout the city
Apr - May
Mild, flowers bloom. Yanling wax plum in full display.
Jun - Aug
Hot and humid. Indoor attractions recommended.
Sep - Oct
Pleasant, cool. Best season for sightseeing.
Nov - Mar
Cold and dry. Few tourists.
Capital of Henan province and ancient heart of Chinese civil...
One of China's Four Great Ancient Capitals—13 dynasties made...
One of China's Eight Ancient Capitals—once the world's large...
The ancient capital of the Shang Dynasty, where the world's ...
The birthplace of Zhuge Liang and Zhang Zhongjing, a histori...
One of China's oldest continuously inhabited cities, the cra...
Home to the spectacular Yuntai Mountain UNESCO Global Geopar...
The tea capital of Henan, famous for Xinyang Maojian tea and...
Discover more cities, food guides, and travel inspiration.
