Which city was a capital of Song China?

The capital of the Song Dynasty in China shifted over time between two major cities: Bianjing (present-day Kaifeng) and Lin'an (present-day Hangzhou).

1. Bianjing (Kaifeng): Bianjing served as the capital during the Northern Song period (960-1127). This period was characterized by a time of relative stability and economic prosperity. The city was a major center for commerce, culture, and administration.

2. Lin'an (Hangzhou): After the fall of the Northern Song Dynasty to the Jurchens in 1127, the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279) was established with its capital at Lin'an (Hangzhou). Hangzhou became known for its beauty, with picturesque landscapes and the construction of the West Lake. The Southern Song period is also associated with cultural and economic achievements.

The Song Dynasty is divided into the Northern Song and Southern Song periods due to the shift in the location of the capital and the division of the dynasty after military conflicts.