China is one of the most populous countries in the world, surpassed only by India. At the end of 2023, China had a population of approximately 1.4 billion people. Although this was the second year of population decline in the country, the largest cities in China are still some of the largest cities in the world.
With a history spanning thousands of years, China is one of the oldest surviving civilizations in the world. Known for their unique blend of age-old traditions and cutting-edge technology, China’s major cities are vibrant centers of culture, trade and innovation.
1. Shanghai (24.9 million)
Shanghai is China’s most populous city and is located on the East China Sea, at the mouth of the Yangtze River. The urban population is the driving force behind the city, which has grown into a global financial center with world-class shopping, dining and art. Shanghai is also known for its iconic skyline, including the Bund and the futuristic buildings of Lujiazui.
2. Beijing (21.5 million)
The capital Beijing is located in the north of China, more specifically in the northern part of the east coast of the country. Considered by many to be the heart of Chinese politics, culture and history, Beijing is home to landmarks such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall. Beijing also hosted the 2008 Summer Olympics.
3. Chongqing (16.9 million)
Another of China’s most populous cities is Chongqing, located in southwestern China. Chongqing is known for its mountainous terrain and spicy hotpot cuisine. As a major manufacturing and transportation hub, it plays a crucial role in the Chinese economy.
4. Tianjin (13.9 million)
Located near Beijing, Tianjin is a major port city and major commercial center with a mix of colonial and modern architecture. The historic concession areas and the Tianjin Eye Ferris wheel attract millions of tourists every year.
5. Guangzhou (13.5 million)
As the cornerstone of the Pearl River Delta, Guangzhou is a thriving trade and business center. The city is a destination for foodies and is known for Cantonese cuisine and the Canton Fair. Visitors can also enjoy the ancient temples and futuristic architecture.
6. Shenzhen (12.6 million)
Once a small fishing village, Shenzhen has transformed into a global technology capital. It is known as China’s Silicon Valley and is home to companies such as Huawei and Tencent. The city also boasts a vibrant nightlife and contemporary art scenes. It is located across the border from Hong Kong Island.
7. Chengdu (11.5 million)
Chengdu is known as the birthplace of spicy Sichuan cuisine. Visitors are also attracted by the giant pandas, ancient temples and laid-back lifestyle.
8. Nanking (9.3 million)
One of China’s historic capitals, Nanjing is rich in cultural and historical sites, including the Ming Tombs and the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. Its booming economy and vibrant arts scene make it a major urban center in eastern China.
9. Wuhan (8.6 million)
Located on the Yangtze River, Wuhan is a major transportation and education hub. More recently, it has become infamous for being the place where COVID-19 was first discovered. But Wuhan has long been known for its cherry blossoms and vibrant street food.
10. Xi’an (8.5 million)
Xi’an, the starting point of the Silk Road, is best known for its Terracotta Army. This ancient city also boasts a growing technology sector, preserved city walls and cultural festivals.
11. Hangzhou (7.6 million)
Hangzhou, with its picturesque West Lake, is known for its serene landscapes. As the headquarters of Alibaba, it is also an important technology center.
12. Harbin (5.5 million)
Located in northeastern China, Harbin is known for its Russian-influenced architecture and the annual Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, the largest festival of its kind in the world.
13. Suzhou (5.2 million)
Suzhou is known for its classical gardens and canals and is often called the ‘Venice of the East’. The city is also a hub for silk production and high-tech industries.
14. Zhengzhou (5 million)
Zhengzhou, in central China, is an important transportation hub. It is also an important city in China’s ancient history, as it was the capital of the Shang dynasty, one of China’s earliest recorded dynasties that existed from about 1600 to 1046 BCE. The nearby Shaolin Temple and the Yellow River scenic areas attract countless visitors.
15. Changsha (4.9 million)
Changsha, the capital of Hunan Province, is known for its vibrant nightlife and spicy cuisine. It is also known for its unique locations, including Yuelu Academy and Orange Isle.
We created this article using AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.
Original article: 15 largest cities in China, ranked by population
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