The Yellow River

The Yellow River, known as Huang He in Chinese, is the second-longest river in China. It flows over 5,400 kilometers (3,400 miles) from the Bayan Har Mountains in western China to the Bohai Sea. Historically, it is often called the "cradle of Chinese civilization" as it has supported agriculture for thousands of years, shaping culture and life in the region. However, it is also known for devastating floods, earning it the nickname "China's Sorrow." The river's distinct yellow color comes from sediments, particularly loess soil, carried by its waters. Today, it remains vital for irrigation and transportation.