Pan
Pān
Pan (潘) originally referred to water flowing out and then returning, symbolizing circulation and continuity. It represents fluidity, adaptability, and the cyclical nature of life. The surname is associated with water elements.
Population Ranking
#53
Estimated Under 1 million people
Geographic Distribution
Henan, Sichuan, Zhejiang
Five Element Attribute
Water
wisdom, flexibility, and adaptability
Origine & Histoire
The Pan surname originated from the ancient state of Pan during the Zhou Dynasty. Some descendants of Ji Sun, a son of the Duke of Zhou, were granted the territory of Pan and adopted it as their surname.
Surname Evolution
The Pan surname has deep roots in Chinese history, tracing back over 2,000 years. Originating from the ancient commandery regions, the Pan clan established itself as a distinguished family during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). Through centuries of migration and development, the Pan surname spread across China, with notable concentrations in Shangqiu area, Henan. The clan produced scholars, officials, and military leaders who contributed significantly to Chinese civilization throughout the Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
Commandery
Liangguo Commandery (梁国) — Modern-day Shangqiu area, Henan Province
Hall Title
报本堂 (Pan Clan)
Ancestral Hall
Pan Clan Ancestral Hall in Liangguo — A traditional clan hall preserving the genealogical records and cultural heritage of the Pan family. The hall serves as a gathering place for clan descendants during traditional festivals such as Qingming and Mid-Autumn Festival.
Clan Motto & Family Tradition
忠孝传家，仁德继世 — Loyalty and filial piety pass through the family; benevolence and virtue continue.
Personnes Célèbres Nommées Pan
Pan Yue (潘岳) — Western Jin Dynasty poet and official
Pan Jinlian (潘金莲) — Fictional character from Water Margin and Jin Ping Mei
Pan Geng (盘庚) — Shang Dynasty king who moved the capital to Yin