Xinyang is one of the origins of Chinese civilization with more than 8,000 years of history. During the Xia (21st - 16th century BC) and Shang (16th - 11th century BC) dynasties, it consisted of many vassal states. It had become a vital grain base for the country during the middle period of the Tang Dynasty (618-907), and later developed into a wealthy city in Central China. The terrain of Xinyang declines from its south to the north. Its west and south regions are mountainous formed by Tongbai Mountain and Dabie Mountains. Hills predominate the center of the city, while the northern region of the city is consists of plains and depressions. Xinyang is located in the transitional area between subtropical and warm temperate zones. Weather there is humid and moderate. It has enough sunshine, abundant rainfall and four clear seasons. Xinyang's winter is long, but the chilly period is short. April and October are the best periods to visit Xinyang.