The Most Liveable Cities in China

China is a big country with diverse cultures, dialects, cuisines, and living conditions. Traversing across China, one could feel as if they are traveling through different countries. The lifestyles seen throughout the cities of China vary greatly.

When a city is described as "liveable", it means that it is easiest for citizens to go through the motions of daily life without having to worry about things like air pollution, corruption, and crumbling infrastructure. It can also refer to access to activities and events within the community. Other factors taken into consideration include economic conditions, culture, cuisine, cleanliness, and cosmopolitanism.

The list below shows the most liveable cities in China. The cities are considered the most liveable and are not in any particular order.

10. Shanghai

Shanghai has a population of approximately 24.2 million people. It is one of the largest cities in the world. The city is great for fashion and shopping, business, and nightlife. Shanghai is a rapidly growing cosmopolitan city which attracts people from all over the world.

Shanghai is also rich in culture and tradition as well as the modern influence. Lots of restaurants and nightclubs are found in the city. The city is an economic hub and visitors, as well as locals, often declare that it's the best city in China.

9. Beijing

Beijing is China’s capital politically and even in terms of education and culture. The capital is home to seven World Heritage Sites such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall. Numerous temples and palaces are also found in Beijing. The population of the capital is approximately 19.6 million people. Visitors flock to the capital to experience the excitement and to access opportunities.

8. Suzhou

Suzhou is found in Jiangsu Province and has a population of about 5.3 million people. Suzhou has experienced fast economic growth, particularly since China’s economic reforms of the 1970s. The availability of speed train raids has also attracted many new residents to the city. Suzhou has many gardens, stone bridges, and canals and this has led to it being termed as the “Venice of China.” The city also has many western restaurants that one can enjoy lunch in. The rail that connects Suzhou to Shanghai makes it a popular city as visitors are able to access the cultural and traditional city at ease.

7. Xiamen

Xiamen is found on the south-eastern coast of China in Fujian Province and has a population of 3.5 million people. It is known for its beaches. The city was among the four regions opened as "Special Economic Zones" during the economic reforms. As such, it attracts many foreign investors and a lot of trade.

6. Nanjing

Nanjing is found in Jiangsu Province and has a population of 8 million people. The city is known for its rich culture and history, as well as bustling economy. Numerous higher learning institutions are found in the city. Popular shopping centers can be found around Hunan Road and Fuzimiao. Nanjing has the best cuisine from all over the country. Street food is also found in the city.

5. Guangzhou

Guangzhou is the third most popular city in China, after Beijing and Shanghai. It has a population of approximately 13 million people. Guangzhou is a major port terminal that sees lots of traffic. The city is a main economic hub as it is home to the manufacturing and commercial Pearl River Delta. Guangzhou experiences a humid subtropical climate that is caused by the East Asian Monsoon. China's largest trade fair, known as the Canton Fair, is held annually in Guangzhou.

4. Qingdao

Qingdao is found in Shandong Province and has a population of approximately 8.7 million people. The city is famous for its beer and German architecture. “The Chinese Institute of Competitiveness” ranked the city the number one most livable city in 2011. Beaches, beer, and European influence help make the city a popular choice amongst visitors and locals alike. Qingdao is also a great place to enjoy seafood.

3. Dalian

Dalian is a seaport found in Liaoning Province. The city is one of the most developed industrial areas in China. The availability of numerous industries has given Dalian an economical advantage. Dalian Port is also important for international trade. The city was named the most liveable city by the China Daily in 2006. Dalian is known for its cuisine and unique seafood dishes. Dalian is popular with tourist from across the world because of its climate.

2. Shenzhen

Shenzhen is a city in the Guangdong Province. It was a small fishing village up until the 1970s. The city has since grown economically following its establishment as a "Special Economic Zone" as well as its proximity to Hong Kong. The city is now a major financial center in China and it is home to Shenzhen Stock Exchange. Shenzhen has modern shopping centers, bars, clubs, and restaurants. International immigrants have flocked to the city with the desire of having an economic empowerment as there is a lot of international investment.

1. Chongqing

Chongqing is a city in southwest China and one of the country's five central cities. Like many entires on this list, Chongqing is an economic center rich in history. Chongqing is also a major manufacturing and transport center - it ranks third in motor vehicle production and the first in the production of motorcycles.

The infrastructure (such as railways and roads) has attracted a lot of investors. Chongqing is also famous for its spicy foods and the availability of the Sichuan cuisine.