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The Ming
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.
Episode Clips
Beijing and the Forbidden City
Yongle moves the capital north to Beijing and builds the Forbidden City.
The Chinese Voyages of Exploration
Michael Wood tells the tale of Admiral Zheng He’s voyages before Columbus.
Get a Taste of the Good Life under the Ming Dynasty
A weekend of shopping and sightseeing in Suzhou - the tourist capital of the Ming dynasty!
Christian Missionary Matteo Ricci Journeys to China
In 1582, Matteo Ricci arrives in Macao, hoping to convert China to Christianity.
Power Politics in the Ming Dynasty
After the death of the Ming founder, a brutal new emperor takes charge.
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