China's Imperial Capitals & Avatar Mountains
A Rewritten Itinerary for the Modern Explorer
Day 1: Arrival and Initial Exploration
Morning: Kaifeng Museum Immersion
Begin your journey at the Kaifeng Museum, specifically visiting the fourth-floor exhibition hall dedicated to Jewish culture and history. This comprehensive display provides essential context about the Jewish community that existed in Kaifeng from at least the twelfth century until the late nineteenth century. Examine historical artifacts and documentation that trace the origins of Kaifeng Jews, believed to have come from Persia, Khazar in the Middle East, or possibly India.
Afternoon: Architectural and Historical Context
After the museum, explore the surrounding area including the Lord Bao Temple and Lord Bao Lake. These traditional Chinese structures provide contrast to the Jewish history you'll discover, highlighting how Jewish culture existed within a predominantly Confucian society. Cross Ziyou Road and pass through Drum Tower Square to experience the city's rhythm before heading toward the historic Jewish quarter.
Day 2: Tracing Jewish Footprints in Kaifeng
Morning: Jingjiao Hutong Exploration
Walk approximately one kilometer north to reach Jingjiao Hutong (Sect Alley), the most famous concentration place of Kaifeng Jews throughout history. Originally named Tiaojin Hutong ("get rid of beef or lamb tendons"), this name reflected Jewish dietary customs of avoiding animal tendons to commemorate their ancestor Jacob. Learn how General Feng Yuxiang later changed the name to the current Jingjiao Hutong.
Afternoon: Understanding Cultural Integration
Discover how Jews first arrived during the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127) and were welcomed by the emperor provided they pledged allegiance to China and respected Chinese customs. Explore how these early Jewish settlers naturally integrated into Chinese society, participating in imperial examinations and achieving official positions, while maintaining their unique cultural identity.
Day 3: Contemporary Connections and Legacy
Morning: Meeting Modern Descendants
Learn about the eight remaining Jewish families in Kaifeng who carry Han surnames of Zhao, Ai, Li, Zhang, Shi, Jin, and Gao. Understand the origins of these surnames - for instance, Ai derived from Adam, while Zhao was an imperial gift from Song Dynasty emperors. Discover how these families have preserved elements of their heritage despite significant cultural assimilation.
Afternoon: Cultural Preservation and DNA Evidence
Explore how some Jewish families continue to observe traditions like avoiding pork, not eating animal tendons, and keeping the Sabbath. Discuss the 1980s DNA testing that confirmed Kaifeng Jews' bloodline originated from Jewish communities near the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, showing close relation to Armenian and Arabian Jewish populations. Consider the remarkable story of cultural preservation across more than 1,000 years of history.