The earliest Neolithic culture identified in the western Liao River region, with semi-subterranean dwellings and traces of early agriculture.
Known as the "First Village of China," a planned moat-encircled settlement. It yielded some of the world's earliest jade ornaments (jue earrings), marking the origin of East Asian jade culture. The Chahai site belongs to this period.
Noted for finely made zun-type vessels and painted pottery bearing spirit and animal motifs, foreshadowing the ritual symbolism of Hongshan culture.
The apex of the Liao civilization, epitomized by the goddess temple, cairn tombs, and altar at Niuheliang and by jade dragons. Its monumental ritual sites and ranked burials have sparked debate over early complex society, or a "proto-state."
A transitional culture following Hongshan, notable for pottery bearing incised signs.
An early Bronze Age culture marked by dense stone-walled settlements. The later Upper Xiajiadian phase is linked to debates over Liaoning-type bronze daggers.