Jiaxing history

The history of Jiaxing spans over two millennia and is closely linked to the key stages of China's development. Located in the fertile Yangtze River Delta, this city has been a significant economic and cultural centre since ancient times.

Foundation and Early Period
The first settlements in the territory of modern Jiaxing appeared thousands of years ago, but the city was established as an administrative unit during the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BC). Its strategic location on a plain crisscrossed by rivers and canals predetermined its future. Since ancient times, this region has been known as the "Land of Fish and Rice," highlighting its agricultural importance.

Key Factors of Formation
The main catalyst for Jiaxing's growth was the construction of the Grand Canal—a monumental hydraulic engineering structure connecting the north and south of China. Passing through the city, the canal transformed it into a bustling trading hub. Its geographical proximity to major centres such as Hangzhou and Suzhou also contributed to its prosperity. Trade, particularly in silk and grain, became the foundation of the city's economy for many centuries.

Cultural and Economic Features
Jiaxing is historically recognised as one of the "cradles of silk" in China. The production of high-quality silk began here many centuries ago and quickly brought fame to the city far beyond its borders. The developed network of waterways not only facilitated trade but also shaped the unique appearance of the city, which is often compared to the "Venice of the East." Its rich cultural heritage and economic prosperity attracted scholars, poets, and artisans, leaving a significant mark on the history and architecture of the region.

Key Milestones in Jiaxing's History

The history of Jiaxing is a kaleidoscope of events reflecting the development of the entire Yangtze Delta region. From ancient settlements to modern achievements, the city has always played a notable role in the life of China.

• 221–206 BC — During the Qin Dynasty, Qiuquan County was founded on the site of modern Jiaxing, marking the first official mention of an administrative unit in this region.
• 7th Century AD — The construction of the southern section of the Grand Canal, which passed through the city, turned Jiaxing into a vital transport and trade hub, giving a powerful boost to its economic development.
• 938 — During the Wuyue Kingdom era (Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period), the county was renamed Jiaxing, a name that has been preserved to this day.
• 1368–1644 — During the Ming Dynasty, the city became one of the main centres of silk production in China, earning the unofficial title of the "House of Silk."
• 14th–19th Centuries — Water towns such as Wuzhen and Xitang, which are part of modern Jiaxing, experienced a golden age, forming their unique architectural appearance with stone bridges and canals.
• 1895 — The opening of the railway connection between Shanghai and Hangzhou via Jiaxing contributed to the city's further integration into the regional economy.
• July 1921 — The First National Congress of the Communist Party of China concluded on a "Red Boat" on South Lake (Nanhu) in Jiaxing, making the city a landmark in the country's modern history.
• 1950s — After the establishment of the PRC, a large-scale programme for the restoration and modernisation of the Grand Canal began, returning it to the status of an important transport artery.
• 1983 — Jiaxing received the status of a prefecture-level city, cementing its administrative importance in Zhejiang Province.
• Early 21st Century — The city actively developed as an industrial and technological centre, attracting investment in high-tech industries and becoming a significant economic zone near Shanghai.

Stages of Jiaxing's Development: From Ancient Centre to Modern Metropolis

The history of Jiaxing is a vivid example of how an ancient city has managed not only to preserve its heritage but also to become an important economic and cultural centre in modern China. Key transformations reflect its strategic significance and adaptability.

• Formation of a Transport Hub via the Grand Canal. The construction of the Grand Canal in the 7th century was a turning point for Jiaxing. The city transformed into a busy crossroads of trade routes linking the north and south of the country. This laid the foundation for its economic prosperity for centuries to come, making it a key centre for transporting rice, silk, and other goods.
• Status as the "Silk Capital" of China. Beginning in the 15th century, Jiaxing secured the title of one of the main centres of silk production. Silk weaving became not just a craft but the basis of the urban economy and culture, bringing Jiaxing wealth and worldwide fame. This tradition continues today: modern silk industrial parks operate in the city.
• Birthplace of the First CPC Congress: Unique Heritage. In 1921, the First Congress of the Communist Party of China concluded on South Lake (Nanhu) in Jiaxing, making the city a landmark in the country's modern history. This event gave Jiaxing a special political and cultural status, which is today highlighted by memorial complexes and attracts many tourists.
• Industrial Diversification in the 20th–21st Centuries. While preserving its traditional textile industry, Jiaxing has successfully diversified its economy. Today, it is a major producer of electronics, chemical products, and leather goods, ranking among global leaders in the export of certain commodities. Headquarters of major technology companies are located in the city.
• Integration into the Yangtze River Delta Economic Zone. Its strategic location between Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou has allowed Jiaxing to become an integral part of China's most powerful economic agglomeration. The city actively participates in regional production chains, attracting investment in high-tech industries and developing as an important industrial satellite of Shanghai.
• Creation of a Modern Logistics Hub. In addition to historic waterways, Jiaxing has developed a powerful modern transport infrastructure. The Port of Jiaxing (Zhapu) is among the world's top 100 container ports, and a network of high-speed railways and motorways ensures rapid connections with key metropolises of the country.
• Development of Cultural Tourism and Gastronomic Brand. The city actively leverages its cultural heritage. Ancient water towns, such as Wuzhen and Xitang, have become popular tourist destinations. Furthermore, Jiaxing has successfully built a reputation as the "Capital of Zongzi"—a traditional Chinese sticky rice dish—turning it into a multi-million dollar industry with its own museum.

The architectural appearance of Jiaxing presents a striking contrast between the centuries-old traditions of the Jiangnan region and the rapid dynamics of modern China. Historically, the city developed not under the influence of European styles like Gothic or Baroque, but within the stream of distinctive Chinese architecture, which today sits alongside ultra-modern projects.

Traditional "Water Town" Architecture

The historical core of Jiaxing's urban planning is the classic style of the Jiangnan region, south of the Yangtze River. The most vivid examples are the ancient water towns of Wuzhen and Xitang, which are administratively part of Jiaxing. Their architectural ensemble was formed during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

• Layout: Urban development is organically integrated into the landscape and governed by a dense network of canals. Streets and houses are situated along the water, while numerous stone arch bridges serve as connecting elements.
• Building Style: Characteristic features include houses with whitewashed walls and dark grey tiled roofs. Wood and stone predominate in construction. Buildings are typically two stories high, with intricate wood carvings on eaves, windows, and doors. The ground floors often served as shops or workshops, while the upper floors were residential.

20th Century Architecture and Modern Development

The 20th century brought new architectural trends associated with political and social changes in the country. A landmark object of this period is the Revolutionary Memorial Hall on South Lake, dedicated to the First Congress of the CPC. Its monumental style reflects the influence prominent in mid-20th century architecture.

Since the late 20th century, Jiaxing has experienced rapid growth, transforming into a modern metropolis. Urban planning of this period is characterised by:

• Postmodernism and High-Tech: Modern high-rise residential complexes, office centres, and public buildings with glass facades and complex forms are being erected in the city. These structures form the new business centre of the city.
• Futuristic Projects: A prime example of the latest architecture is the railway station project by MAD Architects, which is integrated into a park zone and represents a "station in the forest." Another of their projects, the Jiaxing Civic Centre, features organic, undulating forms symbolising the flow of water in the ancient canals.

Thus, the urban development of Jiaxing demonstrates a unique combination of carefully preserved "water town" heritage and ambitious architectural projects, emphasising its status as an important economic centre in the Yangtze River Delta.

Distinguished Figures Connected to Jiaxing

The city of Jiaxing and its surroundings have gifted China and the world with many talented individuals who have left a significant mark on literature, science, and art. Here are some of them:

• Mao Dun (1896–1981) — One of the greatest Chinese writers of the 20th century, a public figure, and the first Minister of Culture of the PRC. Born in Wuzhen, which is today part of Jiaxing. His novel "Midnight" is considered a classic of modern Chinese literature.
• Jin Yong (1924–2018) — Real name Cha Leung-yung (Louis Cha), a world-renowned writer and co-founder of the Hong Kong newspaper "Ming Pao." Born in Haining County (now part of Jiaxing). He is one of the most widely read Chinese authors, famous for his novels in the wuxia genre (martial arts adventures).
• Wang Guowei (1877–1927) — A distinguished scholar, historian, philologist, and philosopher born in Haining. He was one of the foremost experts on ancient Chinese epigraphy and made a significant contribution to the study of Chinese history and literature.
• Chen Xingshen (Shiing-Shen Chern) (1911–2004) — A Chinese-American mathematician and one of the leading specialists in differential geometry of the 20th century. Born in Jiaxing, he is considered the "father of modern differential geometry." His work has had a tremendous influence on the development of mathematics worldwide.
• Xu Zhimo (1897–1931) — A famous romantic poet of the early 20th century, born in Haining. He was a key figure in the Crescent Moon Society and made a major contribution to the development of modern Chinese poetry, influenced by Western romanticism.
• Zhu Yizun (1629–1709) — A poet and scholar of the Qing Dynasty, born in Jiaxing. He was one of the leading representatives of his time in the fields of poetry and philological research, leaving behind a rich literary legacy.
• Zhang Leping (1910–1992) — A famous cartoonist born in Haiyan County (now part of Jiaxing). He is the creator of one of the most famous characters in Chinese comics—the homeless boy Sanmao.