50 Largest Cities in China by Population

Given that China has one of the largest populations in the world, with over 1.4 billion citizens, it’s no surprise that the country is full of megacities, but which one is the largest by population?

As of now, Chongqing is the city with the largest population in China (based on the total resident population within its administrative area). At the end of 2025, Chongqing had around 31.87 million residents, followed by Shanghai, Beijing, and Chengdu, with populations of about 24.85 million, 21.8 million, and 21.53 million, respectively.

However, city size can vary depending on how it is measured. For example, Chongqing, indeed, has a very large administrative area, but if measured by continuous urban area or urban population, Shanghai will take the first place.

Therefore, this ranking of the largest cities in China by population in 2026 uses the latest officially released total resident population data as the main standard. You’ll see which of these megacities are truly worth visiting, what to do there, and how to combine them into an unforgettable China trip.

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• Largest Cities in China by Population: 2026 Quick Facts
• 10 Most Populous Cities in China
• List of Top 50 Major Chinese Mainland Cities
• Which of China’s Largest Cities Are Best for Tourists?
• Get Around These Big Cities
• Plan a Trip Around these Cities
• Plan a Trip to China’s Largest Cities with China Xian Tour

Largest Cities in China by Population

China’s largest cities by population are mainly located along the eastern coast, the Yangtze River Economic Belt, and major provincial capitals. Here’s a list of the top 10 biggest cities in China:

Rank	City	Permanent Population at the End of 2025	Travel Highlights
1	Chongqing	31.8726 million	8D Magic City, mountain city, hot pot, night views
2	Shanghai	24.8541 million	The Bund, modern metropolis
3	Beijing	21.8000 million	Great Wall, Forbidden City, capital city culture
4	Chengdu	21.5350 million	Giant pandas, Sichuan cuisine
5	Guangzhou	19.1010 million	Cantonese cuisine, Lingnan culture
6	Shenzhen	18.2485 million	Modern city, technology
7	Wuhan	13.8619 million	Yellow Crane Tower, East Lake
8	Tianjin	13.6300 million	European-style buildings, Tianjin cuisine
9	Xi’an	13.2363 million	Terracotta Army, Ancient City Wall, ancient capital of 13 dynasties
10	Zhengzhou	13.1380 million	Gateway to Henan travel

10 Most Populous Cities in China

The 10 largest cities in China listed above are ranked by population, but their significance goes far beyond their population size. Many are also major economic, transportation, and cultural centers in China.

However, the population ranking shown on the list does not always reflect travel popularity.

For example, Xi’an is usually a higher priority than Tianjin and Wuhan for first-time travelers. Chengdu and Chongqing are also popular choices for food, local culture, and a more relaxed urban experience.

Therefore, besides comparing the population and economic size of these cities, this article will also highlight what each city has to offer and which ones are worth adding to your China travel itinerary.

Data Note: population and GDP data below are mainly based on the latest statistics released by each city in 2025 (the latest available data in 2026).

1. Chongqing (31.87 Million)

• Area: About 82,400 km²
• Population: 31.8726 million
• GDP per capita (2025): RMB 105,874 (about USD 14,800)

With about 31.87 million inhabitants, Chongqing is the biggest Chinese city by population. Unlike Shanghai or Beijing, Chongqing has an extremely large administrative area, which is composed of the famous downtown area, mountains, districts, counties, and rural areas.

For travelers, Chongqing is best known for its unique three-dimensional city landscape. Built among mountains and rivers, this most populated Chinese city features light rails passing through buildings, dramatic bridges, riverside views, Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing, and spectacular night scenery.

Combined with spicy hot pot and local street food, Chongqing offers an experience that feels completely different from other Chinese megacities.

How to Explore the City:

• How Long to Stay: 2–3 days. 4 days if visiting Wulong or Dazu Rock Carvings.
• Best Time: March–May and October–November, when the weather is more comfortable. Summers can be very hot.
• Top Attractions: Hongya Cave, Jiefangbei, Yangtze River Cableway, Liziba light rail station, and mountain trails. Wulong and Dazu Rock Carvings if time allows.
• Top Food: Chongqing hot pot, Chongqing noodles, spicy chicken, hot and sour rice noodles.
• Where to Stay: Jiefangbei or Yuzhong District is the best for first-time visitors, with convenient transportation, attractions, and restaurants nearby.

2. Shanghai (24.8 million) 

• Area: About 6,340 km²
• Population:8541 million
• GDP per capita (2025): About RMB 228,000 (about USD 31,900)

Shanghai is the second largest city in China by population. As one of China’s best-known cities, it’s also arguably one of the most cosmopolitan as well. With a 2025 GDP of RMB 5.67 trillion, it remains one of the country’s leading economic centers.

The city perfectly combines past history and futuristic visions. You can admire the stunning skyline of Lujiazui, walk along the historic buildings of the Bund, explore traditional neighborhoods, or relax in former French Concession streets.

Compared with Beijing, which is known for its imperial history, Shanghai offers a closer look at China’s modern urban lifestyle.

How to Visit:

• How Long to Stay: 2–3 days. 4–5 days if adding a visit to Zhujiajiao Water Town or nearby Suzhou and Hangzhou.
• Best Time: March–May and October–November. Weather is ideal for city walks.
• Top Attractions: The Bund, Yu Garden, Nanjing Road, Lujiazui, Shanghai Museum, and the Former French Concession.
• Top Food: Xiaolongbao, pan-fried pork buns, scallion oil noodles, Shanghai-style braised pork.
• Where to Stay: People’s Square and Nanjing Road for first-timers. Jing’an Temple area for travelers who enjoy cafes and neighborhood walks.

3. Beijing (21.8 million)

• Area: About 16,410 km²
• Population: 8 million
• GDP per capita (2025): About RMB 239,000 (about USD 33,500)

The next city on our list is the capital of China, Beijing. It has a population of 21.80 million, making it the third-largest Chinese city.

Beijing is one of the most important cities for first-time visitors, not only for its grand cityscape but also because it is home to many of China’s most iconic landmarks, like the Forbidden City, Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace.

Compared with Shanghai, Beijing has an even larger urban area, which means attractions are more spread out. Therefore, it’s better to avoid trying to rush through the city in only one or two days.

How to Visit:

• How Long to Stay: At least 3 days. 4–5 days is recommended for first-time visitors.
• Best Time: April–May and September–October
• Top Attractions: The Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, hutongs, and Mutianyu or Jinshanling Great Wall.
• Top Food: Peking duck, noodles with soybean paste, instant-boiled mutton, donkey rolls.
• Where to Stay: Dongcheng District and around Wangfujing, which have easy access to major attractions.

4. Chengdu (21.53 Million)

• Area:14,335 km²
• Population:535 million
• GDP Per Capita (2026 Latest): RMB 115,155 (about USD 16,000)

With a population of over 21.5 million, Chengdu is not only one of the country’s most populous cities but also an important economic and transportation hub in western China.

However, unlike other large Chinese cities such as Beijing or Shanghai, Chengdu does not give visitors a certain fast-paced pressure. Instead, it is known for its relaxed lifestyle, delicious Sichuan cuisine, and friendly atmosphere.

The lovely pandas are the city’s most famous icons. However, what truly makes visitors linger are the city’s unique teahouses, parks, and vibrant local life.

Chengdu is also a great gateway to nearby destinations such as Dujiangyan, Leshan Giant Buddha, Mount Emei, and western Sichuan, which are particularly valued by hiking lovers.

How to Visit:

• How Long to Stay:2–3 days for the city. 3–4 days if adding Dujiangyan or Leshan.
• Best Time to Visit: March–June, September–November.
• Top Attractions: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, People’s Park, Wuhou Shrine, Jinli Street, Kuanzhai Alley; Dujiangyan is recommended for a nearby trip.
• Top Culinary Experiences: Sichuan hot pot, skewers, dandan noodles, Zhong dumplings, Mapo tofu.
• Where to Stay: Chunxi Road/Taikoo Li area is convenient for transportation, shopping, and dining. Kuanzhai Alley offers you a glimpse into Chengdu’s local life.

5. Guangzhou (19.10 Million)

• Area: 7,434 km²
• Population:101 million
• GDP Per Capita (2026 Latest): RMB 168,279 (about USD 23,400)

Guangzhou is the fifth-largest city by population in China, and it is also one of the oldest international trading cities in the country.

It has fewer concentrated major historical sites than Beijing and Xi’an, but it is an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience delicate food and local lifestyle in particular.

Cantonese morning tea, old arcade streets, Lingnan architecture, and Pearl River night views create Guangzhou’s unique charm. It is also an important transportation hub connecting Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and Macau.

How to Visit:

• How Long to Stay: 2 days are enough for the highlights. Food lovers can stay 3 days.
• Best Time: October–March next year
• Top Attractions: Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Shamian Island, Yongqing Fang, Beijing Road, Canton Tower, Pearl River Night Cruise.
• Top Culinary Experiences: Cantonese morning tea, roasted goose, white-cut chicken, rice noodle rolls, wonton noodles, double-skin milk.
• Where to Stay: Yuexiu District is ideal for traditional culture and old-city exploration. Tianhe District is better for modern shopping and convenient transportation.

6. Shenzhen (18.25 Million)

• Area:1,997 km²
• Population:2485 million
• GDP Per Capita (2026 Latest): RMB 213,763 (about USD 29,700)

Shenzhen is one of the best examples of China’s rapid urban development. In fact, if there’s a list of the most modern cities in China, Shenzhen would definitely be at the top.

Unlike Beijing or Xi’an, it is not famous for ancient landmarks. Instead, it offers visitors a glimpse into China’s technology, innovation, modern architecture, and dynamic urban lifestyle.

One of Shenzhen’s biggest advantages is its location. Sitting next to Hong Kong and connected with Guangzhou by high-speed rail, it is easy for visitors to include Shenzhen in a Greater Bay Area trip.

How to Visit:

• How Long to Stay: 1–2 days. Usually no need for a long stay.
• Best Time: October–March next year.
• Top Attractions: Lianhuashan Park, Shenzhen Bay Park, Nantou Ancient City, OCT, Window of the World.
• Top Culinary Experiences: Cantonese dim sum, roasted goose, seafood, coconut chicken hot pot.
• Where to Stay: Futian District is the most convenient, with excellent transportation and commercial facilities. This area is also a good choice if you plan to visit Hong Kong.

7. Wuhan (13.86 Million)

• Area: 8,569 km²
• Population:8619 million
• GDP Per Capita (2026 Latest): RMB 159,800 (about USD 22,200)

Located at the meeting point of the Yangtze River and Han River, Wuhan is not only a populous city but also one of the most important transportation hubs in central China.

The city features a long history, and it developed from three historic areas—Wuchang, Hankou, and Hanyang. As a result, its attractions are spread across different districts.

Wuhan is especially suitable for travelers interested in history, museums, and local food. The Hubei Provincial Museum is also one of the most worthwhile museums to visit in central China.

How to Visit:

• How Long to Stay: 1–2 days.
• Best Time: March–April, October–November. Summers can be very hot.
• Top Attractions: Yellow Crane Tower, Hubei Provincial Museum, East Lake, Wuhan Yangtze River Bridge, Jianghan Road.
• Top Culinary Experiences: Hot dry noodles, doupi, Wuchang fish, lotus root soup with pork ribs.
• Where to Stay: Jianghan Road is convenient for food and city experiences. Visitors focusing on Yellow Crane Tower, museums, and East Lake can stay in Wuchang District.

8. Tianjin (13.63 Million)

• Area: 11,966 km²
• Population:63 million
• GDP Per Capita (2026 Latest): RMB 135,972 (about USD 18,900)

Tianjin is quite close to Beijing with a convenient high-speed rail connection, so it’s one of the easiest cities to add to your itinerary as a side trip destination from Beijing.

The city preserves many buildings from the modern history period, and its European-style streets, Haihe River scenery, and local snacks create a laid-back vibe, which is a completely different atmosphere from Beijing.

How to Visit:

• How Long to Stay: 1 day is enough for highlights; 2 days for a deeper visit.
• Best Time: April–May, September–October.
• Top Things/Attractions: Five Great Avenues, Haihe River, Ancient Culture Street, Italian Style Town, Porcelain House.
• Top Culinary Experiences: Jianbing guozi, guobacai, steamed buns, mahua.
• Where to Stay: For an overnight stay, choose Heping District or near Five Great Avenues. If visiting from Beijing, there is no need to change hotels.

9. Xi’an (13.2 million)

• Area: 10,108 km²
• Population: 2363 million
• GDP Per Capita (2026 Latest): RMB 105,308 (about USD 14,600)

Although not as populated as other biggest cities in China, such as Chongqing and Shanghai, Xi’an should definitely rank among the best cities in China for first-time visitors.

As one of China’s most important ancient capitals, Xi’an offers travelers a chance to experience Chinese history in a relatively short time.

The city is home to world-famous attractions such as the Terracotta Warriors, the Ancient City Wall, and the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, along with rich Tang Dynasty cultural heritage.

Besides, Xi’an is also an important high-speed rail hub connecting Beijing, Chengdu, Luoyang, and other popular destinations.

How to Visit:

• How Long to Stay: 2–3 days. 3–4 days if visitingMount Hua.
• Best Time: March–May, September–November.
• Top Attractions: Terracotta Warriors, Xi’an Ancient City Wall, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Shaanxi History Museum, Bell Tower and Drum Tower, Muslim Quarter.
• Top Culinary Experiences: Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), Yangrou Paomo (lamb soup with bread), Liangpi (cold noodles), Biang Biang noodles, soup dumplings.
• Where to Stay: Consider the Bell Tower or South Gate area if this is your first time in Xi’an. They provide easy access to many attractions, restaurants, and the historic city center.

10. Zhengzhou (13.1 million)

• Area:7,567 km²
• Population:138 million
• GDP Per Capita (2026 Latest): RMB 116,264 (about USD 16,100)

With a population of over 13 million, Zhengzhou is one of the most populous provincial capitals in China.

Zhengzhou is often more useful as a transportation hub than as a destination in itself, with convenient rail connections to many of Henan’s cultural destinations.

If you want to explore famous Henan attractions such as Shaolin Temple, Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang, and Kaifeng, Zhengzhou is a great starting point.

How to Visit:

• How Long to Stay: 1 day for Zhengzhou city. 3–5 days if you want to combine Shaolin Temple, Luoyang, and Kaifeng.
• Best Time: April–May, September–October.
• Top Attractions: Henan Museum. Also take a look at nearby highlights such as Shaolin Temple, Mount Song, Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang, and Kaifeng.
• Top Culinary Experiences: Henan braised noodles, Hulatang (pepper soup), soup dumplings, Menbing (braised pancake).
• Where to Stay: For city sightseeing, Erqi Square area is generally the best. If you plan to continue by high-speed rail to Luoyang, Xi’an, or other cities, staying near Zhengzhou East Railway Station can save time.

List of Top 50 Major Chinese Mainland Cities by Population

The data is collected from the latest population figures released on local government statistics websites. Be mindful that China’s 2026 national population census data is expected to be released in 2027, so the figures listed here are based on the latest available 2025 population data.

Rank	City English Name	Chinese Name	Population (Million)	Travel Highlights
1	Chongqing	重庆	31.87	Mountain city, hot pot
2	Shanghai	上海	24.85	The Bund
3	Beijing	北京	21.80	Great Wall, Forbidden City
4	Chengdu	成都	21.54	Giant pandas
5	Guangzhou	广州	19.10	Cantonese cuisine
6	Shenzhen	深圳	18.25	Modern city
7	Wuhan	武汉	13.86	Yellow Crane Tower
8	Tianjin	天津	13.63	Five Great Avenues
9	Xi’an	西安	13.24	Terracotta Warriors
10	Zhengzhou	郑州	13.14	Gateway to Henan
11	Suzhou	苏州	13.05	Classical gardens
12	Hangzhou	杭州	12.70	West Lake
13	Shijiazhuang	石家庄	11.25	Gateway to Hebei
14	Dongguan	东莞	10.80	Greater Bay Area
15	Linyi	临沂	10.76	Yimeng Mountains
16	Changsha	长沙	10.72	Local food
17	Qingdao	青岛	10.52	Coastal scenery
18	Hefei	合肥	10.00	Gateway to Anhui
19	Wenzhou	温州	9.90	Jiangxin Island
20	Harbin	哈尔滨	9.89	Ice and Snow World
21	Ningbo	宁波	9.83	Port city
22	Foshan	佛山	9.79	Lingnan culture
23	Jinan	济南	9.65	Springs
24	Nanjing	南京	9.64	Ming City Wall
25	Nanyang	南阳	9.40	Henan culture
26	Shenyang	沈阳	9.28	Shenyang Imperial Palace
27	Weifang	潍坊	9.27	Kites
28	Handan	邯郸	9.17	Historical culture
29	Nanning	南宁	9.02	Gateway to Guangxi
30	Xuzhou	徐州	8.97	Han culture
31	Quanzhou	泉州	8.90	Maritime Silk Road
32	Kunming	昆明	8.74	Gateway to Yunnan
33	Fuzhou	福州	8.52	Three Lanes and Seven Alleys
34	Heze	菏泽	8.51	Peonies
35	Fuyang	阜阳	8.04	Northern Anhui
36	Tangshan	唐山	7.72	Coastal Hebei
37	Nantong	南通	7.67	Yangtze River Estuary
38	Dalian	大连	7.56	Coastal scenery
39	Wuxi	无锡	7.54	Taihu Lake
40	Baoding	保定	7.35	Hebei history
41	Luoyang	洛阳	7.08	Longmen Grottoes, Peony culture
42	Guiyang	贵阳	6.67	Gateway to Guizhou
43	Nanchang	南昌	6.67	Gateway to Jiangxi
44	Taiyuan	太原	5.53	Gateway to Shanxi
45	Xiamen	厦门	5.37	Gulangyu Island
46	Lanzhou	兰州	4.45	Yellow River, beef noodles
47	Urumqi	乌鲁木齐	4.15	Gateway to Xinjiang
48	Haikou	海口	3.06	Gateway to Hainan
49	Yinchuan	银川	2.94	Ningxia culture
50	Xining	西宁	2.48	Qinghai-Tibet Plateau gateway

Is Chongqing Really the Largest City in China?

Yes, if measured by total permanent resident population within the entire administrative area. Chongqing had 31.87 million residents at the end of 2025, making it the largest city in China by this standard.

However, the answer is not always the same in every discourse. It changes if you refer to the urban population or built-up area standard that is commonly used in international comparisons.

Chongqing covers an enormous area of about 82,400 km², so its population is not concentrated only in the downtown areas where you may get to visit, such as Jiefangbei and Hongyadong.

Which of China’s Largest Cities Are Best for Tourists?

For first-time visitors, Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai, and Chengdu are often better choices because they each reveal a different side of China: ancient history, Chinese civilization, modern city life, and famous food culture.

However, many travelers have faced the same question: which one of the four cities is better for a first trip to China?

We’d say if you can only choose one, Beijing comes first for its iconic landmarks and historical importance. Choose Shanghai if you have a clear preference for modern China, or Chengdu if you want to focus more on pandas, Sichuan food, and a relaxed city atmosphere, or Xi’an if you are interested in ancient history, the Terracotta Army, and a taste of traditional Chinese culture.

By the way, when people talk about China’s “Four Major Cities”, they usually refer to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen based on their economic importance and international influence.

What’s the Best Way to Get Around These Big Cities?

China’s largest cities usually have some of the most convenient public transportation systems in the country. Cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Chongqing, Wuhan, and Xi’an all have extensive metro networks.

For most travelers exploring the city, the combination “metro + walking” is usually the most convenient way to get around. For travelers with luggage, families, or those returning to the hotel late at night, taxis or ride-hailing services are more practical.

One thing to remember: in China’s big cities, distance on the map can be misleading. A 10-kilometer journey may still take 40–60 minutes, especially during busy hours. In cities like Beijing and Chongqing, moving between different areas can take even longer, so it is better to arrange nearby attractions on the same day.

For traveling between cities, high-speed trains are usually the first choice for journeys of 2–5 hours.

Popular routes include Beijing–Xi’an, Shanghai–Hangzhou, Shanghai–Suzhou, Guangzhou–Shenzhen, and Chengdu–Chongqing.

If the train journey takes more than six hours, it is worth comparing train and flight options. However, remember to factor in airport transfers, check-in, security, and waiting time when comparing the total travel time.

How to Plan a China Trip Around Its Major Cities

How many cities should you visit in your first China trip? For first-time visitors, it is more comfortable to arrange 1–2 cities for a 7-day trip, 3 cities for 8–10 days, and 3–4 cities for 11–14 days.

If you visit too many places in a rather short itinerary, much of your time will be spent checking out, getting to train stations, traveling, and checking into a new hotel.

Trip Length	Recommended City Combination
5–7 Days	Beijing + Xi’an
8–10 Days	Beijing + Xi’an + Shanghai
11–14 Days	Beijing + Xi’an + Chengdu/Zhangjiajie + Shanghai
Food-Focused Trip	Guangzhou + Chengdu + Chongqing
Modern City Experience	Shanghai + Hangzhou + Shenzhen + Guangzhou

Plan a Trip to China’s Largest Cities with China Xian Tour

If you want to get first-hand experience with China’s vibrant, bustling megacities, there’s no better way than going with China Xian Tour. Offering both preset and custom tours all over China for all kinds of travellers, you’ll get the benefit of local knowledge to make sure you make the most of your travels. Whether you’re looking for a food tour, a tour of historic landmarks, a nature tour, or something else entirely, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for with us.