The Hongshan culture, named after the archaeological site discovered in Chifeng, Inner Mongolia, boasts a rich history that spans 70 years. Recently, intriguing new archaeological discoveries related to this ancient culture have come to light. On September 22, experts announced the latest findings from the stone tombs of the Hongshan culture located at Yuanbaoshan in AoHan Qi, Chifeng. Among the remarkable artifacts uncovered is a stunning jade dragon measuring 15.8 centimeters in length, 9.5 centimeters in width, and 3 centimeters in thickness—marking it as the largest jade dragon identified in a century of Hongshan archaeological research.

This dragon holds profound significance in Chinese culture, representing a crucial aspect of identity for the Chinese people and serving as a central symbol of the Hongshan culture. In 1971, archaeologists unearthed what is now regarded as the “first dragon of China,” a Hongshan jade dragon from the same cultural site, which has led to Chifeng being celebrated as the “Home of the Jade Dragon in China.” A visit to this “home of the jade dragon” offers a unique opportunity to delve into the ancient origins of Chinese civilization.