In the second half of the 13^th century AD, Kublai Khan ordered the construction of Dadu, the capital of the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368), in Beijing, significantly influencing the history of China’s capital development. Dadu served as a typical example for capitals in subsequent periods of ancient China, embodying the ideal model of an ancient Chinese capital.

As the south-to-north routes of the Grand Canal were opened or renovated during the Yuan Dynasty, materials needed were transported to this “City of the Great Khan” via the canal, bringing prosperity to the capital and fostering its splendid culture.

To tell the story of Dadu of Yuan effectively, the exhibition is designed to include three sections: “City of the Great Khan”, “Dadu and the Grand Canal”, and “The Splendor of Dadu”. Starting with the builders of Dadu and expanding outward, the exhibition provides a comprehensive view of the capital by showcasing trade goods and the interactions between literati and merchants, allowing you to envision the grandeur of the capital.