Wangcheng, about 30 kilometres north of central Changsha, contains the ruins of the ancient capital of the Chu state's eastern territory and later the capital of the Ma-Chu kingdom (907-951 AD). Archaeological excavations here have uncovered Han dynasty palace foundations, Chu-period bronze and ceramic deposits, and evidence of urban occupation spanning more than two thousand years. The site is less developed than the major Changsha museums but offers a sense of the deep pre-history that the provincial museum presents in object form.
The Wangcheng Museum on site covers the archaeological history of the area with reasonable clarity, though without the presentation quality of the Hunan Provincial Museum. The ancient city walls — earthworks visible as substantial mounds — are the most impressive physical feature. Worth visiting for those with serious interest in Chu or Han dynasty archaeology; less essential for general visitors who will find the provincial museum more rewarding. Accessible by bus from Changsha North station.