Changchun history

The history of Changchun is relatively short but packed with events that transformed it from a small settlement into a major industrial and administrative hub. The city was officially founded in 1800, initially as a small trading post at a crossroads. Its location in the center of the fertile Manchurian Plain facilitated its gradual growth as a center for agricultural trade, particularly in soybeans.

A key factor that determined Changchun's destiny was the construction of the Chinese Eastern Railway (CER) in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The laying of the railway line turned the city into a strategically important transport hub connecting various parts of the region. This attracted the attention of foreign powers and contributed to rapid economic development. The city became the junction where the South Manchuria Railway and the Chinese Eastern Railway met, making it a center for logistics and commerce.

A new chapter in the city's history began in the 1930s. From 1932 to 1945, Changchun, renamed Xinjing (meaning "New Capital"), served as the capital of the state of Manchukuo. During this period, large-scale urban planning was implemented, which still defines the modern structure of Changchun's central districts. Numerous administrative buildings were erected, and wide avenues and squares were created, giving the city a metropolitan appearance. The economy was focused on industry and resource processing, laying the foundation for Changchun's future transformation into the "Chinese Detroit"—a center of automotive manufacturing.

Key Milestones in the History of Changchun

The history of Changchun is a kaleidoscope of events that transformed it from a small trading settlement into one of the most important industrial and administrative centers of Northeast China. Below are the key dates that defined the city's destiny.

• 1800 — Official founding of the settlement, which was originally a small trading post on the Manchurian Plain.
• 1898 — Construction begins on the southern branch of the Chinese Eastern Railway (CER), turning Changchun into a vital transport hub.
• 1907 — The city falls under the sphere of influence of Japan, which begins active development and creates a commercial district adjacent to the South Manchuria Railway.
• 1932 — Changchun is renamed Xinjing (新京, "New Capital") and becomes the capital of the state of Manchukuo.
• 1934 — Approval of the master plan for Xinjing, which defined the modern layout of the city center with wide avenues and squares.
• August 1945 — The city is taken by Soviet troops during the Manchurian Operation, ending the existence of Manchukuo.
• October 10, 1948 — After a five-month siege, the city comes under the control of Chinese Communists during the Chinese Civil War.
• July 15, 1953 — The groundbreaking ceremony for the "First Automotive Works" (FAW) takes place, marking the starting point of Changchun's transformation into the "Chinese Detroit."
• 1954 — Changchun becomes the administrative center of Jilin Province.
• July 13, 1956 — The first "Jiefang" (Liberation) truck rolls off the assembly line, marking the birth of the Chinese automotive industry.
• 2007 — The city hosts the 6th Asian Winter Games, confirming its status as a major regional center.

The history of Changchun is a series of rapid transformations that, in just a century, turned a small trading post into a modern metropolis. Here are several key milestones that defined its current appearance and significance for China.

• Construction of the CER and the Birth of the City. In the late 19th century, the laying of the Chinese Eastern Railway gave a powerful impetus to the city's development, turning it into a strategically important transport and trade hub in the country's northeast.
• The Xinjing Period ("New Capital"). In the 1930s and 40s, Changchun, bearing the name Xinjing, became the capital of the state of Manchukuo. During this time, a massive urban planning reform was carried out: wide avenues were laid, parks were established, and monumental buildings were erected, forming a unique architectural landscape that remains the city's calling card to this day.
• Cradle of the Chinese Auto Industry. After 1949, the First Automotive Works (FAW) was founded here with the help of specialists. This event made Changchun the "automotive capital" of the country and defined its industrial development vector for many years.
• "City of Film". The founding of the Changchun Film Studio, the first in the new China, brought the city fame as a center of national cinema and cultural recognition throughout the country. Film festivals are still held here, and the "Movie Wonderland" theme park is a popular attraction.
• Green Capital of the North. Thanks to large-scale greening programs started in the second half of the 20th century, Changchun has earned the reputation of a "Forest City" and is one of the most environmentally friendly large cities in the region.
• World Sculpture Capital. Since the late 1990s, the city has become a venue for international sculpture symposiums. Today, its parks and streets are adorned with hundreds of works of art, and the World Sculpture Park is one of the main attractions.
• Scientific and Educational Hub. In the 21st century, Changchun has strengthened its position as a leading center of science and higher education in Northeast China, attracting students and scientists from all over the country thanks to its many universities and research institutes.

Changchun's architectural appearance represents a unique blend of styles reflecting its turbulent history. In its relatively short life, the city has managed to be an important hub of the Russian Empire, the capital of Manchukuo under Japanese administration, and an industrial center of socialist China. Each of these eras has left its unique mark on the urban structure and architecture of the city.

Initial Stage: Russian Influence (Late 19th – Early 20th Century)

The development of modern Changchun began with the construction of the Chinese Eastern Railway (CER) in 1898. During this period, development was concentrated around the railway station and was primarily utilitarian in nature. Functional buildings in the Russian style were erected: the train station, administrative buildings, residential houses for engineers and workers, as well as trade missions. This stage laid the foundation for Changchun's transformation into an important transport and trade hub.

Capital of Manchukuo: Japanese Urban Planning (1932–1945)

The most significant contribution to shaping Changchun's appearance was made during the period when it was the capital of the state of Manchukuo and bore the name Xinjing ("New Capital"). Japanese architects and engineers implemented a massive urban planning project here, which still defines the layout of the city center. The basis was a radial-ring system with wide avenues, large squares, and extensive green zones.

Architecture was dominated by the so-called "Asian Renaissance" or "Imperial Crown Style" (Teikan Yōshiki)—a monumental style combining Western construction technologies with traditional elements of Japanese and Chinese architecture, particularly distinctive roofs. The brightest examples of this era are:

• The "Eight Ministries" Complex (八大部, Bādàbù) — monumental government buildings located along one of the central avenues. Each has its own unique appearance while harmonizing with the others.
• The Imperial Palace of Manchukuo — the residence of China's last emperor, Pu Yi, representing a complex of buildings where Chinese, Japanese, and European styles blend.
• Headquarters of the Kwantung Army — another impressive structure demonstrating the power and ambitions of that time.

Socialist and Modern Periods (From 1949 to Present)

After the formation of the PRC, Changchun became one of the centers of heavy industry, which was also reflected in its architecture. In the 1950s–1970s, mass construction of residential areas and industrial facilities was carried out in the spirit of Soviet functionalism, especially around the "First Automotive Works" (FAW). The main priority was speed and economy of construction.

From the late 20th century to the present day, Changchun's architecture has developed in line with global and Chinese trends. Modern glass and concrete skyscrapers, large shopping centers, sports arenas, and futuristic objects, such as the new international airport terminal, are appearing. This modern development sits alongside historical heritage, creating an eclectic but uniquely harmonious image of the "City of Eternal Spring."

Notable Figures Associated with Changchun

The history and culture of Changchun are reflected in the lives of many prominent people. The city, having been a capital, an industrial giant, and the cradle of Chinese cinema, is linked to the names of politicians, engineers, artists, and athletes.

• Pu Yi (1906–1967) — The last emperor of the Qing Dynasty and ruler of the state of Manchukuo. From 1932 to 1945, his residence was in Changchun (then Xinjing), making the city the center of the region's political life. His palace is one of the main historical attractions today.
• Rao Bin (1917–1987) — Engineer and statesman, known as the "father of the Chinese automotive industry." He was the first director of the First Automotive Works (FAW) in Changchun, the launch of which in the 1950s defined the city's economic profile for decades to come.
• Tian Fang (1911–1974) — Actor and director, the first director of the Changchun Film Studio after its reorganization in 1949. Under his leadership, the studio became the "cradle of new Chinese cinema," releasing many iconic films and training several generations of filmmakers.
• Wang Ganchang (1907–1998) — A prominent nuclear physicist and one of the founders of the Chinese nuclear program. He made significant contributions to science while working at the Institute of Applied Chemistry in Changchun, highlighting the city's role as an important scientific center.
• Liu Ye (born 1978) — One of China's most famous contemporary actors. Born and raised in Changchun, he is a graduate of the Central Academy of Drama and a winner of numerous prestigious film awards. His success symbolizes the continuation of the city's cinematic traditions.
• Li Yugang (born 1978) — A popular singer and performer known for his unique performance style combining modern music with elements of traditional Peking Opera. A native of Changchun, he has received wide recognition both in China and abroad.
• Zhou Yang (born 1991) — A famous Chinese speed skater specializing in short track. Born in Changchun, she became a three-time Olympic champion, bringing fame to her hometown on the world sports stage.