Hangzhou rapidly rose to prominence and became the prosperous “first state in the southeast” under the Qian family’s nearly century-long governance of the Wuyue Kingdom during the Five Dynasties period (907–960 AD). During the Northern Song Dynasty (960–1127 AD), as grain transport flourished, Hangzhou gradually became a key southern transport hub for both land and water routes. This exhibition, in collaboration with 23 museums and cultural relics protection units, brings together 237 pieces or sets of exquisite artifacts from the Southern Song Dynasty, including 45 first-level cultural relics. Through these artifacts, we aim to depict the history of the dynasty and reproduce the bustling splendor of Lin’an. This exhibition will offer a comprehensive portrayal of the then capital located south of the Yangtze River (Jiangnan), famed for its enchanting lake beauty to the west and magnificent river tidal bore to the east.

Date: September 30, 2025–January 4, 2026

Venue: Galleries 11 and 12