Map of the Zhou Dynasty's Feudal States: Distribution of Vassal States Compared to Modern Administrative Regions

To govern a vast territory effectively, the Zhou Dynasty of ancient China implemented a feudal system (封建制度) . The king delegated regional control to royal relatives and meritorious officials, creating what we now refer to as vassal states (諸侯國) . These vassal states overlap significantly with modern Chinese provinces, leaving a strong mark on local culture and historical identity. In this post, we’ll explore a map of the Zhou Dynasty’s feudal state distribution and compare it with today’s administrative geography.     The Basic Structure of Zhou Feudalism After conquering China, the Zhou kings granted land to relatives and trusted officials who ruled their own regions. Though these lords had to pay tribute and offer military aid to the Zhou king, they enjoyed significant autonomy . The system was structured as follows: Zhou King (Central Authority): Symbolic and spiritual “Son of Heaven” Vassals (Lords): Royal relatives and allies governing assigne...