Map Introduction

Sizhou (Si Province) was an administrative division established by the Cao Wei regime, building upon the foundation of the Eastern Han's Thirteen Provinces. Its historical evolution can be divided into the following stages:

Establishment and Adjustments

Sizhou was initially reformed from the Office of the Colonel-Director of Retainers (Sili Xiaowei). Its administrative seat was located in Henan (east of modern Luoyang City), and its jurisdiction covered parts of modern central Shaanxi, southwestern Shanxi, and western Henan. The Cao Wei regime maintained its supervisory function, governing the five commanderies of Hedong, Pingyang, Henei, Hongnong, and Jianxing, plus the capital district administered by the Administrator of Henan (Henan Yin), totaling 61 counties.

Relocation of the Administrative Seat

After the Eastern Jin's southward migration, Sizhou was temporarily established in exile at locations such as Hefei and Xingyang. During the Northern and Southern Dynasties period, the Liu Song dynasty first established Sizhou at Xuanhu (modern Runan, Henan), later moving it to Pingyang (modern Xinyang, Henan). Under the Later Zhao of the Northern Dynasties, its seat was moved to Xiangguo (modern Xingtai, Hebei). After the Northern Wei moved its capital to Luoyang, it changed Luzhou to Sizhou, while the Eastern Wei changed Xiangzhou to Sizhou.

Functional Evolution

During the Cao Wei period, Sizhou primarily retained its supervisory and inspection role. However, through subsequent regime changes, its functions gradually shifted towards comprehensive administration. After Wang Shichong briefly re-established Sizhou in Luoyang towards the end of the Sui Dynasty, this administrative structure was gradually abolished.

Geographical Scope

The core area of Sizhou included modern central-western Henan, southwestern Shanxi, and central Shaanxi. It served as the military and political heartland of the Central Plains. From the Eastern Han through the Cao Wei period, its location at a key transportation nexus and strategic military position made it a region fiercely contested by all rival powers.