#China #Hangzhou #Silk Road #Gaochang #Kucha

Silver Mountain Moon Exhibition Opening

The prestigious China National Silk Museum in Hangzhou is set to unveil its flagship exhibition, Silver Mountain Moon: Gaochang and Kucha on the Silk Road, on June 24, 2026. This exhibition marks a central highlight of the 2026 Silk Road Week, which runs under the theme ‘Harmony in Diversity, For a Shared Future.’ Since its inception in 2020, Silk Road Week has become a significant event, featuring thematic exhibitions, academic discussions, and special events like ‘Silk Road Nights’. In 2026, the event will focus on the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and welcome the Kingdom of Morocco as a guest of honor, enriching the cultural and academic exchanges.

The Silver Mountain Moon exhibition traces the ancient northern route of the Silk Road, known as the Middle Route during the Tang Dynasty. It extends from Gaochang, located in the Turpan Basin of present-day Xinjiang, to the famed Buddhist center of Kucha, situated in contemporary Kuqa, Xinjiang. The exhibition will showcase over 200 historical relics from 14 institutions across Zhejiang Province and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, including 20 first-class national treasures. Noteworthy displays include archaeological artifacts from ancient site excavations and cave temples. Among the highlights are thousands of ancient manuscripts unearthed from Gaochang, providing insights into the region's historical governance and its integration with the Central Plains during the Han and Tang dynasties. Additionally, the Kizil Caves murals will reveal a fascinating fusion of artistic influences, including Indian, Hellenistic, Persian, and Central Plains elements.

Xinjiang has been a crucial part of China since the Han Dynasty, when military garrisons and administrative offices were established. This exhibition serves to illustrate the region's rich history as Gaochang and Kucha evolved into vibrant hubs of cultural exchange, where diverse ethnic groups and traditions thrived together. The exhibition commemorates prominent historical figures such as the renowned monk Kumarajiva, known for translating Buddhist texts for the Central Plains, and King Jiangbin of Kucha, who adopted Han Dynasty customs—both of whom symbolize the enduring cross-cultural connections facilitated by the Silk Road.

The Silver Mountain Moon exhibition will be open for public viewing from June 24 to September 1, 2026, at the China National Silk Museum. It invites audiences to delve into the profound legacy of the Silk Road and to appreciate the inclusivity that has shaped Chinese civilization over many centuries. This unique opportunity not only showcases the historical significance of the Silk Road but also promotes a deeper understanding of the diverse cultures that have intertwined throughout history.

With the backdrop of Xinjiang's rich cultural tapestry, visitors can expect to engage with numerous educational events and community activities during the Silk Road Week, making this a must-visit event for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.