In the Song Dynasty, when the commodity economy was extremely active and developed, Bianliang City, the capital of the Northern Song Dynasty, was very prosperous. It was once the largest city in the world. Moreover, Bianliang City has surpassed most of the capitals of the past dynasties in terms of its city size and population. Even Chang'an City, which was very prosperous in the Tang Dynasty, was slightly inferior to Bianliang City in Tokyo.
After Song Taizu Zhao Kuangyin seized power through the Chenqiao Mutiny, he made Bianliang his capital. After the Song Dynasty made Bianliang its capital, Bianliang developed over the years and the city gradually became prosperous. At that time, Bianliang was the largest country in China in the eyes of people at that time, and it was also the political, economic, and cultural center at that time. Some people said that Bianliang City was a city that was built by all parties and connected with all nations. As for the most authentic expression of Bianliang City, you can take a look at the famous "Along the River During the Qingming Festival". After you see this painting, you will have a better understanding of the prosperity of Bianliang at that time and more sighs.
At that time, the population of Bianliang City was already more than 1.5 million, and the population of ordinary cities at that time was even less than one-third of the population of Bianliang City at that time. Bianliang City was extremely large. At that time, Bianliang City was divided into three parts: the outer city, the inner city, and the imperial city. The circumference of the outer city was more than 50 miles!
During the Renzong period of Song Dynasty, as the restrictions on the scope of the city were opened, the development of the commodity economy in Bianliang City reached another peak. It can be said that there was no place in Bianliang City without people selling things. In addition, the Song Dynasty also canceled the curfew policy, so Bianliang City was extremely lively until late at night. In addition, the Northern Song Dynasty also had famous Wazi and other entertainment venues. These entertainment industries could often attract many people. Even Song Renzong came out of the city to have fun with the people after hearing about it. In addition, it is said that the monks at that time would also do some business to supplement their lives, and some of them even went into the business of selling roast pork. At that time, the most famous roast pork shop in Bianliang City was run by several monks from Daxiangguo Temple. Yes, the roast pork they make is often sold out.