China’s Largest Cities by Population and Influence

There are approximately 130 cities in China with a population of over 1 million people, and 18 of them are home to more than 10 million residents. Each megacity has its own unique character, architecture, and culinary features. This guide features ten of China’s largest cities that are worth visiting.

5 China’s Largest Cities

1. Chongqing

Chongqing has a population of 29.9 million people. It is a city with an incredible history dating back over 3,000 years, when it was the capital of the Ba kingdom. Located at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, it is often called the “mountain city” (Shancheng) due to its hilly landscape, and the “capital of mists” because of the high humidity, which creates frequent thick fogs from October to April. The climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers makes visiting comfortable from April to October.

The gender ratio in Chongqing is nearly balanced, with 50.3% of the population being men and 49.7% being women, which is better than the national average. The age structure of the population indicates significant aging, with more than 25% of the population aged 60 years and older, which is significantly higher than the national average.

Despite the large population, approximately 4 million people have moved out of the city, mostly to coastal areas to work in the manufacturing and service sectors. Meanwhile, urbanization is developing at a slower pace than the national average, mainly due to the high rural population in suburban areas. The city faces significant challenges, including managing an aging population and attracting talent to emerging industries.

2. Shanghai

Shanghai is a financial and cultural giant of China, with a population of 24.9 million people, as well as the largest seaport. The city is divided by the Huangpu River into two parts: Puxi, on the west bank, with its colonial quarters and historical buildings, and Pudong, on the east bank, an ultra—modern area with futuristic skyscrapers, often referred to as “Shanghai Manhattan.” Shanghai is renowned for its humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and relatively short, yet cool, winters.

Travelers come here for the impressions of the contrasts: You can get lost in the bustling streets of the old city, visit the Jade Buddha Temple, and in the evening, enjoy the views of the Bund with its Art Deco architecture. It is worth visiting the observation deck of the Pearl of the East TV tower (468 m), exploring the local attractions, and sampling Shanghai cuisine’s delicacies, including soups with Xiaolongbao dumplings.

3. Beijing

Beijing is the capital of China, with a Population of 21.9 million people, and one of the oldest cities in the world, home to six UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is the political, educational, and cultural center of the country, which has preserved the spirit of imperial greatness. Beijing has a temperate continental climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and cold, harsh winters.

It is worth visiting the Forbidden City, a grandiose imperial palace complex, as well as the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of temple architecture. Take a trip to the Great Wall of China (the nearest section of Badaling is 80 km from the city), stroll along the Alley of Spirits to the tombs of the Ming Dynasty emperors, and spend the evening in the hutongs — old Beijing alleys — to experience the atmosphere of traditional life. And also try the Peking duck.

4. Guangzhou

Guangzhou is the capital of Guangdong Province, the largest city in southern China, with a population of 18.7 million, and one of the most important trade ports in the world, boasting a rich history. It was here that the Great Silk Road originated, and today the city retains its status as a key center of international trade, hosting the Canton Fair annually. Guangzhou has a subtropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers and very mild, warm winters, making it an attractive destination to visit throughout the year.

Guangzhou harmoniously combines ancient traditions and ultra-modernity. The Chen family Ancestral Temple is a masterpiece of Qing Dynasty architecture, and the Temple of the Five Immortals commemorates the founding of the city. However, the most famous symbol is the Guangzhou TV Tower, one of the world’s tallest. Its height is about 600 m.

By comparison, the height of the Ostankino TV Tower is 540.1 m. You can go on a night cruise along the Pearl River to admire the illumination of skyscrapers and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of antiquity on Shangxiajiu Street. Guangzhou is also a gastronomic mecca. This is the birthplace of the famous Cantonese cuisine. For example, you can try dumplings with shrimp or roast duck.

5. Shenzhen

Shenzhen is a phenomenon city that has transformed from a small fishing village in just 40 years into one of the most important financial and technological megacities in the world with a population of over 17 million people. Located right on the border with Hong Kong, it has become China’s first and one of the most successful special economic regions. It is a city of youth, innovation, and incredible energy. The climate here is subtropical monsoon, characterized by warm winters and hot, humid summers with heavy rainfall.

Unlike the ancient cities of China, Shenzhen is distinguished by its modern attractions. Be sure to visit the “Window to the World” theme parks, featuring replicas of famous buildings from around the world, and the “Village of Chinese Folk Culture” to get acquainted with the country’s diverse culture in one day. The Shenzhen Safari Park, a wildlife park where animals are housed in large enclosures, may also be of interest. For shopping and entertainment, it’s worth visiting the Luohu district, the city’s commercial center.