China, one of the world’s oldest civilizations, boasts a rich tapestry of ancient cities that have stood as enduring witnesses to the nation’s remarkable history and cultural heritage. From the cradle of Chinese civilization along the Yellow River to the bustling maritime trading hubs along the coast, these urban centers have played pivotal roles in shaping the country’s political, economic, and cultural landscapes.
Spanning millennia, these cities have weathered the rise and fall of dynasties, witnessed the ebb and flow of trade and commerce, and served as crucibles for artistic, intellectual, and religious movements that have left an indelible mark on Chinese society. Join us on a captivating journey through time as we explore the stories and legacies of eleven of China’s most ancient and historically significant cities.
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List of 10 Ancient Cities of China
- Changzhou
- Luoyang
- Anyang
- Kaifeng
- Zhengzhou
- Xi’an
- Beijing
- Datong
- Quanzhou
- Hangzhou
1. Changzhou
Changzhou, established around 2600 BC, is considered one of the oldest cities in China, located in the Hunan province. Its former name was Changzhou, which literally translates to “walled town.” This ancient city played a significant role in the development of Chinese civilization, serving as the capital of the Shang Dynasty from around 1600 BC to 1046 BC. It was a major center of bronze production and the birthplace of Chinese writing, with the discovery of oracle bone inscriptions dating back to the Shang era.
Changzhou’s origins can be traced back to the late Neolithic period, around 2600 BC, when it was a walled settlement. During the Shang Dynasty, it grew into a thriving urban center and became the capital city, known as Yin or Yin Xu. The city was strategically located near the Yellow River and served as the political, economic, and cultural hub of the Shang civilization.
Archaeological excavations at the Yin Xu site have revealed the remains of royal palaces, temples, workshops, and residential areas, providing valuable insights into the urban planning and architecture of the Shang Dynasty. The city was meticulously planned, with a grid-like layout and a well-organized system of roads and canals.
After the fall of the Shang Dynasty in 1046 BC, Changzhou gradually declined in importance, but its legacy as one of the cradles of Chinese civilization endures. The archaeological findings from Yin Xu have greatly contributed to our understanding of early Chinese history, culture, and urban development.
2. Luoyang
Luoyang, founded in 605 AD during the Sui Dynasty, is situated in the Henan province. Its former name was Henanfu, or Henan Prefecture, and the literal meaning of its current name is “River South.” Luoyang served as the capital of several dynasties, including the Sui, Tang, and Northern Song. It was a thriving cultural and economic hub, renowned for its Buddhist temples and the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring thousands of intricate Buddhist carvings and statues.
Luoyang has a rich history that spans over 3,500 years, with its origins dating back to the Xia Dynasty (c. 2070–1600 BC). During its golden age as the capital of the Eastern Han Dynasty (25–220 AD), it was known as one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China, along with Chang’an (Xi’an), Pengcheng (Datong), and Changzhou.
When the Sui Dynasty reunified China in 589 AD, Emperor Wen chose Luoyang as the capital due to its strategic location and established the city as Daxingcheng. The city flourished under the Sui and Tang dynasties, becoming a major center of politics, economy, culture, and religion. It was during this period that many of Luoyang’s iconic Buddhist sites, such as the Longmen Grottoes and the White Horse Temple, were constructed.
3. Anyang
Anyang, established around 1300 BC, is located in the Henan province. Its former name was Yin, and it was the capital of the Shang Dynasty from around 1300 BC to 1046 BC. The city is famous for the discovery of oracle bone inscriptions, which provided invaluable insights into the Shang civilization and the development of Chinese writing. Anyang was also a center of bronze production and the birthplace of Chinese astronomy.
Anyang, or Yin, served as the last capital of the Shang Dynasty, one of the earliest dynasties in Chinese history. The city’s strategic location near the Yellow River made it an ideal choice for the Shang rulers, who established their capital there after migrating from their previous capital, Zhengzhou.
The archaeological excavations at Anyang, which began in the late 19th century, have yielded some of the most significant discoveries related to the Shang civilization. The most remarkable find was the vast collection of oracle bone inscriptions, which are among the earliest known examples of Chinese writing. These inscriptions, carved on animal bones and turtle shells, were used for divination purposes by the Shang kings and their royal diviners.
In addition to the oracle bone inscriptions, the excavations at Anyang have uncovered numerous artifacts, including bronze vessels, weapons, and tools, showcasing the advanced metalworking techniques of the Shang civilization. Anyang was a major center of bronze production, and the Shang people were renowned for their exquisite bronze casting skills.
Furthermore, the archaeological evidence from Anyang suggests that the Shang people had a sophisticated understanding of astronomy and celestial phenomena. The ruins of Anyang, including the remains of royal palaces, temples, and residential areas, provide a glimpse into the urban planning and architectural styles of the Shang Dynasty. The city was meticulously planned, with a grid-like layout and a well-organized system of roads and canals.
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4. Kaifeng
Kaifeng, founded in 364 BC, is situated in the Henan province. Its former name was Bianzhou, and the literal meaning of its current name is “opening the border.” Kaifeng served as the capital of several dynasties, including the Northern Song, Jin, and Yuan. It was a prosperous city known for its advanced urban planning and complex system of canals and waterways. Kaifeng was also a center of Jewish culture, with a significant Jewish community residing in the city during the Middle Ages.
Kaifeng has a long and illustrious history that spans over 2,500 years. It first rose to prominence during the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220 AD), when it became the capital of the State of Wei. However, it was during the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127 AD) that Kaifeng reached its golden age as the imperial capital of China.
Under the Song rulers, Kaifeng underwent massive urban expansion and transformation. The city was meticulously planned, with a grid-like layout and a sophisticated system of canals and waterways that facilitated transportation and commerce. The city’s urban planning was considered highly advanced for its time, with residential areas, markets, and administrative centers carefully organized and integrated.
One of Kaifeng’s most remarkable features was its complex network of canals, which earned it the nickname “Venice of the East.” These canals not only served as transportation routes but also played a crucial role in flood control and water management, ensuring the city’s resilience against the frequent floods of the Yellow River.
5. Zhengzhou
Zhengzhou, established around 1000 BC, is located in the Henan province. Its former name was Xinzheng, and the literal meaning of its current name is “Zheng Prefecture.” Zhengzhou was an important city during the Shang and Zhou dynasties and later became a major transportation hub due to its strategic location along the Yellow River. It is known for its rich history, including the Shang-era archaeological site of Shang City and the Shaolin Temple, the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu.
Zhengzhou’s origins can be traced back to the Shang Dynasty, one of the earliest dynasties in Chinese history when it was known as Xinzheng or Aodu. Archaeological excavations at the Zhengzhou Shang City site have uncovered the remains of a walled city, royal palaces, workshops, and residential areas, providing valuable insights into the urban planning and architecture of the Shang civilization.
During the Shang Dynasty, Zhengzhou served as an important political and economic center, playing a crucial role in the development of Chinese civilization. The city’s strategic location along the Yellow River facilitated trade and transportation, contributing to its prosperity.
After the fall of the Shang Dynasty, Zhengzhou continued to be an important city during the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BC). It was during this period that the city became known as Zhengzhou, or “Zheng Prefecture,” reflecting its administrative significance.
One of Zhengzhou’s most notable historical sites is the Shaolin Temple, located in the nearby Songshan Mountains. The temple is revered as the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu, a renowned martial art that has gained global recognition. The temple’s rich history and cultural significance have made it a popular tourist destination and a symbol of Chinese martial arts tradition.
6. Xi’an
Xi’an, founded in 1045 BC, is situated in the Shaanxi province. Its former name was Chang’an and the literal meaning of its current name is “Western Peace.” Xi’an served as the capital of several dynasties, including the Qin, Han, Sui, and Tang. It was a cosmopolitan city and a major hub along the Silk Road, attracting traders and travelers from across Asia and Europe. Xi’an is famous for its Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring thousands of life-sized terracotta warriors and horses.
Xi’an has a rich and illustrious history that spans over 3,000 years. It was first established as the capital of the Western Zhou Dynasty in 1045 BC and was known as Fenghao at the time. During the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC), it was renamed Xianyang and served as the imperial capital, where the famous Terracotta Army was constructed to guard the mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of a unified China.
Under the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD), Xi’an, then known as Chang’an, became one of the greatest cities in the world and the starting point of the Silk Road, a vast network of trade routes that connected China with the Roman Empire and other civilizations in Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East. Chang’an was a cosmopolitan metropolis, home to over a million people from diverse cultures and backgrounds, including merchants, scholars, and diplomats from across Eurasia.
During the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), Chang’an reached its golden age, becoming the largest and most prosperous city in the world at the time. The Tang emperors invested heavily in infrastructure, building grand palaces, temples, and gardens, as well as an extensive network of canals and roads. The city was a center of learning, attracting scholars, poets, and artists from across the empire and beyond.
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7. Beijing
Beijing, established in 1045 BC, is located in the municipality of Beijing. Its former name was Peking, and the literal meaning of its current name is “Northern Capital.” Beijing has served as the capital of several dynasties, including the Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing. It is renowned for its imperial architecture, including the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, and the Temple of Heaven. Beijing was also a major hub along the Silk Road and played a crucial role in the development of Chinese culture and politics.
Beijing’s origins can be traced back to the Western Zhou Dynasty when it was established as a small settlement called Ji in 1045 BC. Over the centuries, the city grew in importance and served as the capital for several dynasties, including Jin (1115-1234), Yuan (1271-1368), Ming (1368-1644), and Qing (1644-1912).
During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Beijing underwent a massive transformation, becoming one of the largest and most magnificent cities in the world. The Forbidden City, a vast complex of palaces and gardens, was constructed as the imperial residence and the political center of the empire. This architectural masterpiece, with its intricate designs and symbolic elements, exemplifies the grandeur and power of the Chinese imperial court.
Another iconic landmark in Beijing is the Summer Palace, a vast ensemble of gardens, pavilions, and lakes that served as a retreat for the imperial family during the Qing Dynasty. The harmonious blend of natural and man-made elements, including the famous Kunming Lake and the Long Corridor, showcases the Chinese mastery of landscape design and architecture.
The Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another architectural marvel in Beijing. This grand complex of religious buildings was used by emperors to perform annual ceremonies and rituals to pray for a bountiful harvest and seek divine blessings for the nation. Beyond its imperial architecture, Beijing played a pivotal role in the development of Chinese culture and politics.
8. Datong
Datong, founded around 200 BC, is situated in the Shanxi province. Its former name was Pingcheng, and the literal meaning of its current name is “Great Metropolis.” Datong was an important city during the Han Dynasty and later became a major center of Buddhist culture, with the Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring thousands of intricate Buddhist carvings and statues.
Datong has a rich history that spans over 2,000 years. It was first established as Pingcheng during the Han Dynasty (206 BC–220 AD) and served as a crucial military outpost and transportation hub along the northern frontier of the empire. Its strategic location at the intersection of major trade routes, including the Silk Road, contributed to its growth and prosperity.
During the Northern Wei Dynasty (386–534 AD), Datong, then known as Yunzhou, became the capital city. It was during this period that the city witnessed a flourishing of Buddhist culture and art. The Northern Wei rulers, who were fervent supporters of Buddhism, commissioned the construction of the Yungang Grottoes, a remarkable series of rock-cut Buddhist cave temples.
The Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a testament to the artistic and religious achievements of the Northern Wei Dynasty. Carved into the sandstone cliffs near Datong, these grottoes feature over 51,000 Buddhist statues and carvings, ranging from miniature figures to colossal sculptures, all meticulously crafted between the 5th and 6th centuries AD. The grottoes are considered a masterpiece of Buddhist art and a significant cultural and religious landmark in China.
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9. Quanzhou
Quanzhou, established around 718 AD, is located in the Fujian province. Its former name was Citong, and the literal meaning of its current name is “River Mouth.” Quanzhou was a major maritime trading port during the Tang and Song dynasties, serving as a gateway for trade between China and the rest of the world. It was a cosmopolitan city with a diverse population, including Arab, Persian, and Indian merchants.
During the Tang and Song dynasties, Quanzhou emerged as one of the most important international maritime trade centers in China. Its strategic location at the mouth of the Jin River made it an ideal port for ships sailing to and from Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, the Middle East, and beyond.
Beyond its role as a commercial hub, Quanzhou was also a center of religious and cultural exchange. Buddhist temples, Taoist shrines, and mosques coexisted within the city, reflecting the religious diversity of its inhabitants. The city’s openness to foreign influences also fostered the exchange of ideas, technologies, and artistic traditions between China and other civilizations.
Quanzhou’s prosperity during the Tang and Song dynasties was further bolstered by its thriving shipbuilding industry and the production of high-quality ceramics, which were highly sought after by foreign traders. The city’s ceramics, known as Dehua porcelain, were renowned for their delicate craftsmanship and intricate designs and were exported to markets across Asia and the Middle East.
10. Hangzhou
Hangzhou, founded in 589 BC, is situated in the Zhejiang province. Its former name was Qiantang, and the literal meaning of its current name is “Temperate Bamboo.” Hangzhou served as the capital of the Southern Song Dynasty and was renowned for its natural beauty, with the West Lake being a major attraction. It was also a center of silk production and a hub for trade and commerce.
Hangzhou has a long and illustrious history that spans over 2,500 years. It was first established as a county in 589 BC during the Spring and Autumn Periods and was known as Qiantang. The city’s strategic location along the Grand Canal and the Qiantang River made it an important transportation hub and a center of trade and commerce.
During the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279 AD), Hangzhou reached its golden age as the imperial capital. The Song emperors invested heavily in the city’s infrastructure, constructing grand palaces, gardens, and temples, as well as an intricate system of canals and waterways. Hangzhou became renowned for its natural beauty, with the West Lake being the crown jewel of the city.
The West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a breathtaking landscape of serene waters, picturesque gardens, and historic pagodas. The city’s strategic location along major trade routes also made it a hub for commerce and cultural exchange.
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Conclusion
The ancient cities of China stand as living monuments to the nation’s rich and diverse history, bearing witness to the remarkable resilience and adaptability of Chinese civilization. From the birthplace of Chinese writing and bronze casting in Anyang to the cosmopolitan maritime trading hubs of Quanzhou and Guangzhou, these urban centers have played pivotal roles in shaping the country’s cultural, economic, and political landscapes.
FAQs
What are Some of the Oldest Cities in China?
Some of the oldest cities in China include Chengzhou (established around 2600 BC), Anyang (established around 1300 BC), and Xi’an (founded in 1045 BC). These cities played crucial roles in the development of early Chinese civilization.
Which City is Considered the Birthplace of Chinese Writing?
Anyang is considered the birthplace of Chinese writing. Archaeologists have discovered oracle bone inscriptions dating back to the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600-1046 BC) at the Yin Xu site in Anyang, which are among the earliest known examples of Chinese writing.
Which Ancient Chinese City was a Major Hub along the Silk Road?
Xi’an, known as Chang’an during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), was a major hub along the Silk Road. It attracted traders and travelers from across Asia and Europe, becoming a cosmopolitan city and a center of cultural exchange.
Which Ancient Chinese City is Famous for its Terracotta Army?
Xi’an is famous for its Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring thousands of life-sized terracotta warriors and horses that were buried with Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of a unified China, to protect him in the afterlife.
