Chu Culture: One of the Important Birthplaces of Three Kingdoms Culture, Hometown of Zhang Juzheng, Stunning Moat Scenery

Chu culture: one of the important birthplaces of Three Kingdoms culture, hometown of Zhang Juzheng, stunning moat scenery.

The East Gate of Jingzhou Ancient City in Hubei was the gate used in ancient times to welcome distinguished guests and important officials. The adjacent New East Gate is now the largest main entrance into Jingzhou Ancient City.

Golden Phoenix Square is located outside the moat at the East Gate of the ancient city. Set against the backdrop of the ancient city wall, ancient city tower, and ancient moat, it is built following the natural terrain. In the center of the square stands the city emblem of Jingzhou, “Golden Phoenix Soaring.”

Nine-Dragon Bridge spans the moat in front of the New East Gate, serving as a vital thoroughfare in and out of Jingzhou City. On the stone arches of the bridge are carved nine lifelike dragon heads.

Zhang Juzheng was a politician, reformer, and Grand Secretary of the Ming dynasty. The Grand Tutor’s Residence in Zhang Juzheng’s former home was his office.

The statue of Zhang Juzheng wears an official cap and robe, holds a scroll in hand, and exudes an aura of integrity.

“Yuanfu Liangchen” (Upright Minister and Worthy Official) was the inscription bestowed upon Zhang Juzheng by the Wanli Emperor.

Binyang Tower, commonly called the East Gate Tower, adopts a large timber-frame structure. It is majestic in scale, unique in design, and preserves the architectural style of the Ming dynasty.

The East Gate Barbican features a stage and audience seating, with regular song and dance performances.

Climbing onto the ancient city wall, around the four corners outside Binyang Tower stand colored realistic sculptures of Three Kingdoms warriors such as Ma Tong and Zhou Cang. Inside the tower are seated or standing figures—bronze-like sculptures of Liu Bei, Zhang Fei, Guan Yu, Zhuge Liang, and Zhao Zilong, all lifelike.

On the riverbank, high-rises stand in rows and trees cast green shade; in the river, clear ripples gleam and leisure boats drift leisurely; on the bridge, traffic flows like a stream. A stunning urban landscape painting intoxicates the viewer.