Shan Hai Jing and the Yu the Great Myth: A Traveler’s Guide to Chinese Identity

What Is the Shan Hai Jing?

The Shan Hai Jing, or Classic of Mountains and Seas, is an ancient Chinese text that's part geography, part mythology, and part bestiary. Compiled between the 4th century BC and the 2nd century AD, it describes hundreds of mountains, rivers, and kingdoms, along with the strange creatures and gods that inhabit them. For travelers, it's a window into how the Chinese saw their world thousands of years ago.

But the Shan Hai Jing isn't just a dusty old book. It's a living part of Chinese culture, and its stories—especially the tale of Yu the Great—are still told today. If you're planning a trip to China, understanding this myth can deepen your experience at places like the Yellow River or the many temples dedicated to Yu.

The Story of Yu the Great: Taming the Flood

The story of Yu the Great is one of the most famous Chinese mythology stories. It goes like this: long ago, the Yellow River flooded constantly, destroying crops and homes. The emperor at the time, Yao, asked a man named Gun to control the floods. Gun tried building dikes, but they always broke. He was executed for his failure.

Then it was Gun's son, Yu, who took up the task. Yu didn't just build more dikes. He studied the rivers and realized that the water needed to be channeled, not blocked. So he dug canals, deepened riverbeds, and redirected the flow. He worked for thirteen years, passing by his own home three times without stopping to visit his family. His dedication paid off—the floods were tamed, and the land became fertile.

Yu's success was so great that he was chosen to become the next emperor, founding the Xia dynasty—traditionally considered the first dynasty in Chinese history. This myth isn't just about a hero; it's about the origin of Chinese civilization itself.

Why the Yu Myth Matters for Chinese Identity

The Yu the Great myth is a cornerstone of Chinese identity. It's not just a story; it's a founding narrative. The myth explains why the Chinese people are so connected to their land, why they value hard work and perseverance, and why they see themselves as the descendants of a great civilization.

For centuries, the myth has been used to justify the unity of China. The idea that Yu tamed the rivers of the entire land—from the Yellow River in the north to the Yangtze in the south—implies that the Chinese territory was always meant to be one. That's a powerful idea, and it's still referenced today in everything from political speeches to school textbooks.

As a traveler, you'll see this myth everywhere. In temples, in paintings, in the names of places. For example, the city of Yucheng in Henan province is named after Yu, and there's a temple there dedicated to him. Visiting such places can give you a sense of how deep this story runs in Chinese culture.

The Shan Hai Jing as a Travel Guide

The Shan Hai Jing isn't just a collection of myths; it's also a geographical record. It describes real places—mountains, rivers, and regions—along with the fantastical creatures said to live there. For modern travelers, it's a fascinating way to see China.

Take the Yellow River, for example. The Shan Hai Jing describes it as a mighty river that floods and changes course. Today, you can visit the Yellow River in places like Zhengzhou or Kaifeng, where you can see the river and learn about its history. The myth of Yu is often told in the museums and parks along the river.

Another example is Mount Kunlun, which the Shan Hai Jing describes as the dwelling place of gods. In reality, Mount Kunlun is a mountain range in western China, and it's still considered a sacred place. Travelers can visit the Kunlun Mountains in Qinghai province, though the journey is rough and requires good planning.

Practical Tips for Exploring Yu the Great Sites

If you're interested in following the footsteps of Yu the Great, here are some practical tips. First, plan your route. The most famous Yu sites are in Henan, Zhejiang, and Shandong provinces. For example, Shaoxing in Zhejiang has a grand temple dedicated to Yu, and it's easy to reach by high-speed rail from Shanghai—about 1.5 hours.

Second, consider hiring a translator. Many of the inscriptions and historical explanations are in Chinese, and a good translator can bring the stories to life. COME (Come to China) offers translation services and can help you arrange a guide who knows the local history.

Third, check the opening hours. Many temples and museums have specific hours, and some are closed on certain days. Always confirm with the official website or a local source before you go. Details can change, so it's best to verify.

1. Start in Shaoxing (Zhejiang) to see the Yu Temple and Mausoleum.
2. Take a high-speed train to Zhengzhou (Henan) to visit the Yellow River Scenic Area.
3. Head to Yucheng (Henan) for a smaller, quieter Yu temple.
4. If you have time, go to Qufu in Shandong, where Confucius is buried—another key figure in Chinese identity.

How the Myth Connects to Modern China

The Yu the Great myth isn't just ancient history. It's still used today to inspire people. For example, the phrase 'Yu Gong Yi Shan' (The Foolish Old Man Who Removed the Mountains) is a similar myth that encourages perseverance. These stories are taught in schools, and you'll hear them referenced in speeches and everyday conversation.

For travelers, understanding these myths helps you understand the Chinese people. When you see a dam on the Yangtze River, you might remember that the Chinese have been trying to control their rivers for thousands of years. It's a continuity that's both practical and spiritual.

Three Routes to Explore the Yu Myth

Route 1: Classic Henan Tour

Start in Beijing, fly to Zhengzhou (about 1.5 hours), then visit the Yellow River Scenic Area and the Yucheng Yu Temple. Spend 3 days, then take a high-speed train to Kaifeng (30 minutes) to see the ancient city and its museums. This route is ideal for history buffs.

Route 2: Southern China Exploration

Fly from Shanghai to Hangzhou (about 1 hour), then take a train to Shaoxing (20 minutes). Visit the Yu Temple and Mausoleum, then continue to Ningbo (1 hour by train) to see the coast. This route is more relaxed, with time to enjoy the water towns of Zhejiang.

Route 3: Off the Beaten Path

Fly from Guangzhou to Chengdu (about 2.5 hours), then take a domestic flight to Kangding (1 hour) and a bus to the Kunlun Mountains (about 8 hours). This is a rugged route for adventurers, but the scenery is stunning. You'll need a guide and a 4WD vehicle.

Related Guides

• chinese culture and history for travellers