Wenzhou history

The city of Wenzhou, located on the southeastern coast of China, possesses a rich history rooted in deep antiquity. The first settlements, known for pottery production, existed in this territory as early as around 2500 BC. However, the official starting point in the city's administrative history is considered to be 323 AD, when Yongjia County was founded during the Jin Dynasty. Wenzhou received its current name, which translates as "mild region," in 675 AD during the Tang Dynasty due to its pleasant climate.

A key factor in Wenzhou's development was its unique geographical position. Surrounded by mountains on three sides and facing the East China Sea, the city was somewhat isolated by land. This isolation compelled its inhabitants to actively develop navigation and trade, transforming Wenzhou into an important seaport. Trade became the foundation of the local economy and shaped the famous business acumen of its residents, who are often referred to as some of the most enterprising people in the country.

From its early years, Wenzhou was not only a commercial hub but also a significant cultural and craft centre. The city was historically renowned as a major producer of celadon — the famous greenish porcelain wares. Furthermore, other crafts flourished here, such as shipbuilding, papermaking, and silk production. Geographical isolation also contributed to the formation of the distinct Wenzhou dialect, which is considered one of the most complex in China. Wenzhou is also known as the cradle of Chinese landscape poetry, founded by Xie Lingyun, who governed Yongjia County in the 5th century.

Ancient History and the Middle Ages

• ~192 BC — The Kingdom of Dong'ou was founded on the territory of modern Wenzhou, marking the first significant state entity in the region.
• 323 AD — Yongjia County was established during the Jin Dynasty era, considered the direct predecessor of the city of Wenzhou.
• 675 AD — During the Tang Dynasty, the region received its current name, Wenzhou ("mild region"), thanks to its temperate climate.
• Song Dynasty (960–1279) — The city transformed into one of China's most important seaports, prospering through the export of celadon, silk, and tea.
• Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368) — Wenzhou maintained its status as a key trading hub despite the change in the ruling dynasty.

Modern and Contemporary Era

• 1876 — Wenzhou was forcibly opened to foreign trade as a treaty port under the terms of the Chefoo Convention, which strengthened its international ties.
• 1949 — Following the establishment of the People's Republic of China, the city became part of the new state and began a new stage of its development.
• Early 1980s — Wenzhou became a pioneer of economic reforms in China, developing the famous "Wenzhou Model" based on private enterprise.
• 1984 — The city received the status of one of China's 14 "open" coastal cities, providing a powerful impetus for attracting foreign investment.
• Late 20th - Early 21st Century — Wenzhou experienced rapid economic growth, establishing itself as a global centre for the production of footwear, lighters, and electrical products.

The history of the development of Wenzhou is a journey from an isolated mountain settlement to a global trading hub. Key stages of the city's transformation defined its modern appearance and unique place in the economy of China.

• Establishment of administrative status and unique layout (323). The designation of Yongjia County and the construction of city walls according to Feng Shui principles by the famous mystic Guo Pu defined the centre's structure for centuries to come. The harmonious positioning relative to mountains and canals laid the urban planning foundation of the old city.
• Transformation into a maritime trade node (10th–13th centuries). During the Song Dynasty era, due to the difficulty of overland routes through the mountains, the city reoriented towards the sea. The rise of Wenzhou as an important port on the Maritime Silk Road stimulated mass production of ceramics and shipbuilding, making exports the backbone of the economy.
• Formation of a pragmatic philosophy (12th century). The emergence of the Yongjia School of philosophy, which placed practical utility above abstract dogmas, shaped the special mentality of the local residents. This cultural phenomenon became the ideological foundation for the region's future renowned entrepreneurship.
• Integration into global trade (1876). Receiving treaty port status opened the city to foreign capital. This led to the appearance of European architecture, Western medicine, and education, launching the first processes of urban modernisation.
• Economic experiment and the "Wenzhou Model" (1980s). The city became a pioneer of market reforms, being the first to legalise private enterprise. The development of family-run manufacturing of consumer goods created a powerful industrial cluster and brought the city fame as the cradle of private business in the country.
• Overcoming infrastructure isolation (21st century). The construction of grandiose bridges across the Oujiang River, the launch of high-speed railways, and the expansion of the airport ended historical transport inaccessibility. This allowed the city to begin a massive expansion eastward, towards the sea, forming new business districts.

Wenzhou's architectural appearance is a visual reflection of its centuries-old history, from an ancient city planned according to Feng Shui principles to a modern metropolis looking towards the future. Each era has left its mark on the urban fabric, creating a unique combination of tradition and innovation.

Antiquity and Traditional Development

The foundations of Wenzhou's urban planning were laid as early as the 4th century AD. The city became a unique example in China, as its initial layout was designed by Guo Pu, considered the "father" of the Feng Shui system. The city's structure was organised in harmony with the surrounding landscape — mountains and rivers — ensuring protection and prosperity. The historical core of the city has preserved traces of this era. In the vicinity of Wenzhou, for example, in the Nanxi River area, one can find ancient villages such as Cangpo and Furong, with traditional houses, temples, and academies demonstrating classical Chinese architecture. The commercial Wuma Street, which has existed for many centuries, is an example of the blend between traditional architecture and the city's commercial life.

Treaty Port Period and European Influence

In 1876, Wenzhou was opened to international trade, which led to the emergence of European architectural influence in the city. Although, unlike other port cities, fully-fledged foreign settlements were not created here, this period left its mark in the form of colonial-style buildings. They can be seen on historical streets where Western elements mixed with local development, creating an eclectic look characteristic of many Chinese ports of that time.

Modern Metropolis: The Era of Modernism and Postmodernism

A true construction boom began in Wenzhou in the late 20th century with the birth of the "Wenzhou Model" economy. This period was marked by rapid urbanisation and the appearance of modern architecture that completely changed the cityscape.

• Skyscrapers and Business Centres: The brightest symbol of the new era became the Wenzhou World Trade Center skyscraper, built in 2010. This 68-story building, nearly 333 metres high, became the dominant feature of the city skyline for many years. Around it, modern business districts grew with office buildings, hotels, and shopping centres designed by international architectural firms.
• Infrastructure Projects: The city's development was accompanied by the creation of large-scale infrastructure facilities. Projects were implemented to improve the Oujiang riverfront, transforming it into a modern public space connecting the city with the water.
• New Public Buildings: Cultural, educational, and sports facilities are being actively built in the city, executed in modernist and postmodernist styles, often with futuristic elements. Examples include the new Yongning Academy project or the Ou-river Crystal Boxes restaurant, demonstrating bold architectural solutions.

Today's Wenzhou is a dynamic city where historic quarters coexist with ultra-modern high-rises, and urban plans aim to create a sustainable and comfortable urban environment, combining economic development with the preservation of natural and cultural heritage.

Distinguished Personalities of Wenzhou

The city of Wenzhou, with its rich history and unique culture, has been the birthplace or place of activity for many outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to China's development in various fields — from poetry and philosophy to science and business.

• Xie Lingyun (385–433) — Poet and statesman of the Northern and Southern Dynasties era. Although not a native of Wenzhou, he was exiled to the post of governor of Yongjia (the old name for Wenzhou) in 422. It was here, inspired by the local landscapes, that he created numerous works establishing the foundation of Chinese "Shan-shui" (mountains and waters) landscape poetry.
• Ye Shi (1150–1223) — Philosopher, scholar, and statesman of the Southern Song Dynasty. He was one of the brightest representatives of Neo-Confucianism and the founder of the "Yongjia School," which emphasised the practical application of knowledge and commercial activity, largely predetermining Wenzhou's future entrepreneurial spirit.
• Gao Zicheng (approx. 1350–?) — Playwright of the late Yuan and early Ming dynasties. His main work, the play "Tale of the Pipa" (琵琶记), became one of the most famous and influential works in the "Nanxi" (Southern Drama) genre, which originated in the Wenzhou region.
• Su Buqing (1902–2003) — A distinguished mathematician, recognised as the "King of Mathematics" in China. A native of Wenzhou, he made fundamental contributions to the development of differential geometry. Su Buqing was an academician and president of Fudan University, educating several generations of Chinese scientists.
• Gu Chaohao (1926–2012) — Mathematician and physicist, academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. A native of Wenzhou, he was a student of Su Buqing and also made enormous contributions to mathematics, conducting research in differential equations, mathematical physics, and differential geometry. In 2009, he was awarded China's Highest State Pre-eminent Science and Technology Award.
• Nan Huai-Chin (1918–2012) — Contemporary Chinese scholar, writer, and spiritual teacher. He was one of the most influential popularisers of traditional Chinese culture, combining Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism in his works and lectures. In the 1990s, he also acted as an investor in the construction of the Jinhua-Wenzhou railway, the first joint-stock railway in China.
• Zong Qinghou (1945–2024) — One of modern China's most famous entrepreneurs, founder and head of the Wahaha Group, a giant in the beverage and food industry. Although born in Suqian, his origins are linked to Wenzhou, and he is a vivid representative of the famous "Wenzhou Model" of doing business, based on perseverance and business acumen.