Brief History of Chengdu

　　The Chengdu Plain and the Ming River valley boast rich water resources. It has a favorable climate and abundant resources. People of all nationalities have lived and prospered here since ancient times, gathering, planting, fishing and raising animals, providing the necessary conditions for the creation of a unique culture. The ancient Shu state had a large population. More than 10 nationalities such as Han, Tibetan and Qiang lived in the Chengdu Plain and the Ming River valley since time immemorial. They had their own distinctive living customs, religious beliefs, festivals, clothing, celebrations and dances, all of which added various elements into Shu culture.

　　Shu culture was an inland agricultural culture, whose inception and development had a close connection to the management of water resources. The ancient Shu has not only an agricultural civilization, as noted by Da Yu and Li Bing, but also industry and commerce, making their civilization the birthplace of engraving, printing, paper currency and cup tea culture.

　　The region was one of the first in China to feature cities. Six ancient cities emerged, some dating back 4,500 years. They were Baodun in Xinjin, Yufu in Wenjiang, Pixian, Mangcheng in Dujiangyan, Shuanghe in Chongzhou and Zizhu. By the time of Sanxingdui and the Jinshan culture, the ancient Shu had formed a state, with a complex theocracy and ritual system. Chengdu was an open city in ancient times, with developed foreign trade, and it was an economical and cultural hub linking southwest China with south Asia and west Asia.

　　Ⅰ. Ancient Shu capital with a long history

　　Chengdu is a cultural and historical city of China. Research from the Baodun Ancient City relics and the Jinsha relics showed that Chengdu had already become an important settlement for ancient Shu people as early as 4,000 or 5,000 years ago when the city first appeared. More than 2,300 years ago, Chengdu was officially chosen as the capital of the ancient Shu.

　　Ⅱ. The historical city, the prosperous culture

　　Chengdu has long been noted for its prosperous culture over the course of history. The people of Chengdu have been the first to make a number of advancements in economics, science and literature, ensuring the everlasting appeal of their city.