Among the technological developments of the Tang Dynasty
was an efficient system of transportation, which included not only the Grand Canal which
had been built earlier, but a system of roads and runners complete with inns, stables
and post offices. The system was so efficient that runners could traverse the entire
empire in nine days. A large group of runners was used to deliver fresh seafood to the
Tang court over a distance of more than 900 miles. Under both dynasties, a number of
agricultural improvements were implemented including use of the iron plow, water wheels
and an intricate irrigation system. This allowed larger areas to be cultivated and
resulted in an agricultural boom.
During these dynasties,
the practice of binding the feet of young girls was implemented. It was normally only
done with daughters of the wealthy and was considered quite attractive, as it meant the
young lady's family was wealthy enough that she did not need to work in the
fields.
Among other cultural changes, Buddhism entered
China during the Tang and Song Dynasties as a result of foreign merchants who travelled
within the Empire. This was considered a direct challenge to Confucianism, which had
fallen into decline during the Period of the Warring States. As a result, a hybrid form
of Buddhism known as Chan (in Japanese "Zen") Buddhism developed Even this offended many
Chinese Confucianists and Daoists which resulted in the religion's ban. A new form of
Confucianism, neo-Confucianism developed which embraced some
Buddhist ideals such as social harmony and proper personal
conduct.
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