Access to this video is a benefit for members through PBS Passport.
Up Next
Back to Show
Watch Preview
Story of China
The Ming
Season 1
Episode 4
In Nanjing Michael Wood sees the building of a huge replica of a Ming ocean-going junk. In Suzhou the 'Venice of China', he explores the silk industry, ceramics and lacquer-making, and visits one of China's most beautiful gardens. Then in Macao, the arrival of Jesuit missionary Matteo Ricci begins China's fateful modern exchanges with the West.
Support Provided By
Unlock with PBS Passport
55:18
The great Taiping Rebellion, the fall of the Empire and the rise of Mao.
Unlock with PBS Passport
55:48
Michael Wood tells the dramatic tale of China's last empire, the Qing.
Unlock with PBS Passport
55:18
Michael Wood tells the tale of China's Renaissance.
Unlock with PBS Passport
57:33
Michael Wood conjures up China's first great international age, the Tang Dynasty.
Unlock with PBS Passport
55:18
Michael Wood returns to the beginnings of Chinese history to find clues to today's China.