The Chu state dominated central China from the Western Zhou period through 223 BC, when it was absorbed by the Qin dynasty. Hunan was Chu territory, and Changsha was one of the Chu heartland cities. The Chu cultural tradition — distinguished by its lacquerware, its ritual bronzes, and a philosophical and literary tradition (the Chu Ci, or "Songs of the South") separate from the Yellow River heartland culture — left deep marks on Hunanese identity that are still present in the cuisine, the dialect, and the aesthetic traditions of the province.
The Changsha Chu Culture Museum covers this pre-imperial heritage with artefacts drawn from excavations across Hunan. The bronze vessels, wooden figures, and silk paintings on display demonstrate how sophisticated and distinctive the Chu material culture was. The museum is smaller than the Hunan Provincial Museum and covers an earlier period; it is most useful as preparation for or supplement to the main provincial museum visit. Entry is free or low-cost. Check opening times before visiting as hours vary.