China is a vast nation with a rich history spanning thousands of years, is home to a remarkable blend of bustling metropolises and charming smaller towns. The major cities in China are centers of politics, commerce, and culture, while its notable towns preserve centuries-old traditions, unique architectural styles, and breathtaking landscapes. This combination offers visitors and researchers an unparalleled perspective on the country’s diversity. In this guide, we explore 20 major cities in China and 15 notable towns, detailing their locations, characteristics, and key attractions.
Top 20 list of Major Cities and Towns in China
Major Cities in China
1. Beijing – Location: Northern China
Beijing, the capital city of China, is a political, cultural, and historical hub. Known for its ancient imperial palaces, world-class museums, and modern business districts, it is a city where the past and present merge seamlessly. Attractions include the Forbidden City, the Great Wall at Badaling, and the Summer Palace.
2. Shanghai – Location: Eastern China, Yangtze River Delta
Shanghai is China’s largest city and a global financial center. It boasts stunning skylines along The Bund, modern shopping streets, and historical neighborhoods. Visitors are drawn to the Asia Pearl Tower, Yu Garden, and Nanjing Road.
3. Guangzhou – Location: Southern China, Guangdong Province
A major port city with a history in maritime trade, Guangzhou is famous for its Cantonese cuisine, modern architecture, and shopping hubs. Key attractions include the Canton Tower, Shamian Island, and Chen Clan Ancestral Hall.
4. Shenzhen – Location: Southern China, bordering Hong Kong
Shenzhen transformed from a fishing village into a tech powerhouse in just a few decades. It is known for theme parks, technology centers, and shopping districts. Popular spots include Window of the World, Splendid China Folk Village, and OCT Loft.
5. Tianjin – Location: Northern China, near Beijing
Tianjin is a coastal metropolis with a blend of European colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers. Notable sights include the Tianjin Eye, Ancient Culture Street, and Italian Style Street.
6. Chongqing – Location: Southwestern China
Chongqing, known for its mountainous terrain and spicy hotpot cuisine, is one of China’s largest municipalities. Highlights include the Dazu Rock Carvings, Hongya Cave, and Three Gorges Museum.
7. Chengdu – Location: Southwestern China, Sichuan Province
Chengdu is famous for its relaxed lifestyle, spicy Sichuan cuisine, and giant pandas. Major attractions include the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Wuhou Shrine, and Jinli Ancient Street.
8. Hangzhou – Location: Eastern China, Zhejiang Province
Hangzhou is renowned for its picturesque West Lake, lush tea plantations, and rich cultural heritage. Tourists enjoy boating on West Lake, visiting Lingyin Temple, and exploring Longjing Tea Village.
9. Nanjing – Location: Eastern China, Jiangsu Province
Once the capital of China, Nanjing is steeped in history, with ancient walls, mausoleums, and museums. Key attractions include the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, Nanjing City Wall, and Confucius Temple.
10. Xi’an – Location: Northwestern China, Shaanxi Province
Xi’an is the ancient capital of several dynasties and the starting point of the Silk Road. The city’s top draw is the Terracotta Army, along with the City Wall and Muslim Quarter.
11. Wuhan – Location: Central China, Hubei Province
Wuhan, a major transportation hub, is known for its Yangtze River bridges, universities, and historic sites. Must-visit spots include Yellow Crane Tower, East Lake, and Hubei Provincial Museum.
12. Qingdao – Location: Eastern China, Shandong Province
Qingdao blends German colonial heritage with seaside charm. It’s famous for its beer, beaches, and sailing culture. Visitors often explore Zhanqiao Pier, Badaguan Scenic Area, and Laoshan Mountain.
13. Harbin – Location: Northeastern China, Heilongjiang Province
Harbin is celebrated for its Russian influence and annual Ice and Snow Festival. Notable landmarks include St. Sophia Cathedral, Sun Island, and the Siberian Tiger Park.
14. Dalian – Location: Northeastern China, Liaoning Province
Dalian is a major port city with pleasant beaches and a mild climate. Key attractions are Xinghai Square, Tiger Beach, and Dalian Discovery Kingdom.
15. Suzhou – Location: Eastern China, Jiangsu Province
Suzhou is renowned for its classical gardens, silk production, and canals. The Humble Administrator’s Garden, Tiger Hill, and Suzhou Museum are major highlights.
16. Xiamen – Location: Southeastern China, Fujian Province
Xiamen offers coastal charm with a blend of colonial architecture and modern development. Tourists flock to Gulangyu Island, Nanputuo Temple, and Hulishan Fortress.
17. Shenyang – Location: Northeastern China, Liaoning Province
Shenyang is rich in Manchu heritage and is home to the Shenyang Imperial Palace, North Tomb, and bustling Zhongjie Street.
18. Zhengzhou – Location: Central China, Henan Province
Zhengzhou is a transportation hub with historical sites linked to ancient Chinese civilization. Key sites include the Shaolin Temple and Henan Museum.
19. Jinan – Location: Eastern China, Shandong Province
Jinan is known as the “City of Springs” for its many natural springs. Notable attractions include Baotu Spring, Daming Lake, and Thousand Buddha Mountain.
20. Changsha – Location: Central China, Hunan Province
Changsha blends modern vibrancy with historical depth. Visitors enjoy Orange Isle, Yuelu Academy, and Hunan Provincial Museum.
READ ALSO: China’s 23 Provinces, their Capitals and Administrative Divisions
Notable Towns in China
1. Lijiang
Location: Southwestern China, Yunnan Province. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lijiang is famed for its Old Town, cobblestone streets, and Naxi culture.
2. Yangshuo
Location: Southern China, Guangxi Province. Yangshuo is known for its dramatic karst mountains and river landscapes, attracting outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Wuzhen
Location: Eastern China, Zhejiang Province. Wuzhen is a well-preserved water town with ancient bridges, stone pathways, and traditional wooden houses.
4. Fenghuang
Location: Central China, Hunan Province. Fenghuang Ancient Town is celebrated for its riverside wooden houses and Miao ethnic culture.
5. Zhouzhuang
Location: Eastern China, Jiangsu Province. One of the oldest water towns in China, Zhouzhuang features canals, arched bridges, and Ming-era architecture.
6. Dali
Location: Southwestern China, Yunnan Province. Dali offers scenic views of Erhai Lake and is rich in Bai ethnic traditions.
7. Pingyao
Location: Northern China, Shanxi Province. Pingyao Ancient City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with intact city walls and historic banks.
8. Tongli
Location: Eastern China, Jiangsu Province. A tranquil water town, Tongli is known for its stone bridges, gardens, and historic residences.
9. Dujiangyan
Location: Southwestern China, Sichuan Province. Dujiangyan is home to an ancient irrigation system and scenic landscapes.
10. Kashgar
Location: Western China, Xinjiang Region. Kashgar boasts a fascinating mix of Uyghur culture, historic bazaars, and Islamic architecture.
11. Shaxi
Location: Southwestern China, Yunnan Province. Shaxi Ancient Town preserves caravan trail heritage from the old Tea Horse Road.
12. Xitang
Location: Eastern China, Zhejiang Province. Xitang is a charming water town with covered corridors, canals, and preserved Ming-Qing architecture.
13. Luoping
Location: Southwestern China, Yunnan Province. Luoping is famed for its golden rapeseed flower fields in spring.
14. Anshun – Location: Southwestern China, Guizhou Province
Anshun is the gateway to Huangguoshu Waterfall and offers traditional Miao villages.
15. Longsheng
Location: Southern China, Guangxi Province. Longsheng is known for its Longji Rice Terraces and Zhuang ethnic culture.
FAQ
What are the largest cities in China by population?
The largest cities in China by population include Shanghai, Beijing, Chongqing, Tianjin, and Guangzhou, all of which are important cultural, economic, and political hubs.
How many major cities are in China?
China has more than 100 major cities, but the most commonly highlighted ones for tourism and economic significance are around 20 to 30.
Does China have towns as well as cities?
Yes, China has thousands of towns in addition to its major cities, many of which are historically significant or serve as local trade and cultural centers.
Which Chinese city is best for tourists?
Beijing is popular for its historical landmarks like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, while Shanghai attracts visitors with its modern skyline and vibrant city life.
Are China’s towns worth visiting?
Yes, towns such as Fenghuang, Wuzhen, and Lijiang are famous for their preserved ancient architecture, traditional culture, and scenic beauty.