Top 7 Ancient Chinese Cities That Still Exist Today

China has over 3,000 years of history, and several of its ancient cities are still inhabited today, drawing visitors from all over the world to experience their historical and cultural heritage. Among the most famous ancient cities in China, seven stand out. Here are the most well-known ancient Chinese cities.

#1: Beijing, Previously Known As Jin City

One cannot talk about ancient Chinese cities without mentioning the capital, Beijing. Previously known as Peking, this city was the capital of the Shang Dynasty from 1700 to 1027 B.C., then referred to as Yin. Though the Shang Dynasty ended, Beijing continued to serve as the capital for five other dynasties over nearly 900 years. With a history spanning almost 3,000 years, Beijing is rich in cultural heritage and is home to numerous historical landmarks. This city is a treasure trove of ancient Chinese culture, offering countless artifacts and monuments that provide insights into the lives and traditions of the people who lived during these eras. For more on Beijing’s rich history, visit the official Beijing Tourism website.

#2: Anyang, First Known Capital of China

Anyang, located in Henan Province in mid-eastern China, was the capital of seven dynasties over 500 years. Historians place Anyang in the Shang Dynasty (1600–1046 BC) during the Yin Period. It is here that the famous Book of Changes originated. Other significant relics found include oracle bones: bones or tortoise shells with inscriptions from the same era, considered the earliest form of Chinese writing. Learn more about the ancient capital of Anyang by exploring this Anyang City Guide.

#3: Hangzhou, Capital of the Southern Song Dynasty

Hangzhou, the youngest of the ancient cities, was the capital of the Wuyue Kingdom (907–978) during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. It later became the capital of the Southern Song Dynasty. Located southwest of West Lake in North Zhejiang Province (southeast coast), Hangzhou was famously described as a place where “heaven and earth meet.” The city’s scenic beauty includes private gardens, clean rivers, and picturesque bridges. Discover more about Hangzhou’s cultural significance on the Hangzhou Tourism website.

#4: Nanjing, Early Ancient Capital In China From 265 AD

Nanjing was the capital for six dynasties spanning nearly 500 years, making it one of the top four must-see historic cities in China. Once one of the world’s largest cities, Nanjing had a population of over one million. Located in Southwest Jiangsu Province in Eastern China, Nanjing is known for its cultural and historical significance. A popular activity is taking a night cruise on the Qinhuai River to enjoy the stunning scenery and vibrant nightlife. For a deeper dive into Nanjing’s history, visit the Nanjing Tourism website.

#5: Kaifeng, Previously Known As Dongjing or Bianjing

Kaifeng, a city with a 2,700-year history, served as the capital for eight dynasties. It is recognised as one of the birthplaces of Chinese cultural and historical elements. The famous painting, Ascending the River at Qingming Festival, by Zhang Zeduan (1085–1145 AD), depicts Kaifeng during its peak. Located in Mid-Eastern Henan Province, Kaifeng is unique for maintaining a central axis in city planning throughout various reigns, although few relics remain due to historical damage. Learn more about Kaifeng’s rich history by visiting the Kaifeng Travel Guide.

#6: Xi’an, First Imperial Capital Of China

Xi’an, located in Shaanxi Province in Central China, was the capital for 13 dynasties over 1,200 years. This makes it one of the oldest and most enduring ancient cities in China. Xi’an is not only considered the birthplace of Chinese civilisation but also the nation itself. UNESCO has recognised Xi’an as a World Cultural and Historical City, ranking it among the Top Ten Historic Capitals globally. Xi’an is also known as one of the most advanced cities in ancient China. For more details about Xi’an, visit the Xi’an Tourism website.

#7: Luoyang, Oldest City In China

Located in mid-eastern China in the Western Henan Province, Luoyang was home to 13 dynasties for 500 years and among the top four ancient cities in the country. It is considered the first city to host Buddhist temples and grottoes. A reason to visit this old town is that five World Cultural Heritage sites can be found here: the Dingding Gate, Hanjia Granary of the Grand Canal of China, Hanwei Luoyang Ancient City Ruins, Huiluo Cabin, and the Longmen Grottoes. In ancient China, it was one of only two cities to earn the title Shendu, which translates to “the capital of God.”

Ancient China Map

China has a very long history of ancient cities, which makes it one of the most sought-after destinations for travellers interested in heritage. If you visit, a local guide who knows the history first-hand turns a list of monuments into a coherent story.