Henan Provincial Research Institute of Cultural Heritage and Archaeology(HPRICHA), founded in 1952, is one of the earliest institutions dedicated to cultural heritage and archaeology in China. We have been actively engaged in field surveys, excavations, conservation, and archaeological studies of underground cultural relics in Henan Province, making a significant impact in the fields of archaeology and heritage conservation throughout China. The Institute has established two bases of National Cultural Heritage Administration : the Key Scientific Research Base of Urban Archaeology and Conservation, and the Training Base for Cultural Heritage Talents. Additionally, it has set up three provincial research centers, including the Henan Provincial Center for Cultural Relics Conservation, the Henan Provincial Xia Culture Research Center, and the International Joint Laboratory of the Origins of Modern East Asians, along with three provincial scientific research bases. Overall, our institute is well-equipped for advanced research in this vital field.

The scholars at the institute have taken on more than 30 national scientific research projects in China, and have published over 200 academic works and more than 3,000 professional papers. In addition to these achievements, the institution has also won several important awards, such as the Xia Nai Archaeological Research Achievement Award, the Research Achievement Award of the Chinese Archaeological Congress, and the Award for Outstanding Writings in Chinese History.

The national key archaeological projects currently being carried out by the institute include the Project to Trace the Origins of Chinese Civilization, the study of Xia culture, and the study of the civilization process in the Central Plains. Excavations and research are in progress at several key sites. For example, the Jiahu Site in neolithic period, where the Jiahu bone flute, the earliest musical instrument in China was unearthed. And the Xianrendong Site in Lushan, where the skull fossils of ancient humans was discovered. As well as several urban sites in historical dynastic period, such as the Shang Dynasty City Ruins in Zhengzhou, the ruins of Zhouqiao Bridge in Kaifeng.

Henan Province, located in the north-central region of China and commonly known as the Central Plains, is widely recognized as the important birthplace of Chinese civilization. As pathfinders of Chinese civilization, the previous generation of archaeologists, led by Mr. An Jinhuai made outstanding contributions to the archaeological work in Henan. Under the guidance of these archaeologists, Henan Provincial Research Institute of Cultural Heritage and Archaeology has been committed to developing archaeology that reflects Chinese characteristics, style, and ethos. It is also prepared to collaborate with other institutions to protect cultural heritage across borders and to intensify efforts in enhancing exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations.