In extremely long ago, cities and counties of present Xiaogan belonged to ancient Jingzhou. During the Zhou Dynasty (11th century BC-221BC), this region was the capital of several city states. Danyang is the old name of Xiaogan. It was changed to a regional level district under Hubei province in 1961. Bearing a subtropical monsoon climate, Xiaogan has clear four seasons, but chilly and torrid periods are short. Weather in spring, autumn and early summer is moderate. Mid-June to mid-July is the plum rain season, and rainstorms usually occur during this period. Xiaogan's winter is cold and seldom rainy or snowy. Xiaogan has an annual average temperature of 16C (61F). It will be comfortable to visit the city in spring, autumn and early summer.