Zhou Daguan (
Chou Ta-kuan;
French:
Tcheou Ta-Kouan; c. 1270–?) was a Chinese diplomat under the
Temür Khan, Emperor Chengzong of Yuan. He is most well known for his
accounts of the customs of Cambodia and the
Angkor temple complexes during his visit there. He arrived at Angkor in August 1296, and remained at the court of
King Indravarman III until July 1297. He was neither the first nor the last Chinese representative to visit the
Khmer Empire. However, his stay is notable because he later wrote a detailed report on life in Angkor,
The Customs of Cambodia . His portrayal is today one of the most important sources of understanding of historical Angkor and the
Khmer Empire. Alongside descriptions of several great temples, such as the
Bayon, the
Baphuon,
Angkor Wat, and others, the text also offers valuable information on the everyday life and the habits of the inhabitants of Angkor.