Country | China |
Population | 4556230 |
Area | 9,950 km2 (3,840 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+8 (China Standard) |
Coordinates | 33.58861, 119.01917 |
Highest elevation | None |
City Gallery
City Description
Huai’an, formerly known as Huaiyin, is a prefecture-level city situated in the central part of Jiangsu Province in Eastern China. This historically significant city had a built-up area population of 2,544,767 within its three central urban districts as of the 2020 census. The entire prefecture-level city had a population of 4,556,230, a decrease from the 4.8 million recorded in 2010.
Geographically, Huai’an lies on the Huai River, a major waterway that historically served as the boundary between Northern and Southern Chinese cultures. The city is positioned in the middle of Jianghuai, a vast alluvial plain created by sediment deposits from both the Huai and Yellow Rivers. The Yellow River, which flowed nearby for centuries, significantly influenced the region’s geography before it was redirected back to its old course north of Shandong due to massive floods in the mid-19th century.
Huai’an’s strategic location made it an important regional center throughout history. The city’s proximity to the East China Sea has decreased over time due to the sediment accumulation, but it remains a crucial inland hub. The alluvial plains provide fertile soil, making the region agriculturally productive.
Culturally, Huai’an boasts a rich historical heritage. It is renowned as the birthplace of several prominent figures in Chinese history. Han Xin, a famed general who played a pivotal role in founding the Han dynasty and overcoming Xiang Yu during the Chu-Han contention, was born here. Additionally, the city is the hometown of Wu Cheng’en, the Ming Dynasty author of the classic novel “Journey to the West,” and Zhou Enlai, an influential early Chinese Communist leader who served as the premier of the People’s Republic of China from 1949 until his death in 1976.
Economically, Huai’an has developed into a significant regional hub. The city’s economy is diverse, with key sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The fertile plains of Jianghuai support extensive agricultural activities, producing a variety of crops. Industrial development in Huai’an has been bolstered by its strategic location and transportation infrastructure, which includes roadways, railways, and waterways that facilitate trade and commerce.
The city is also known for its cultural contributions and historical landmarks. Huai’an hosts several festivals and events that celebrate its rich cultural heritage. Traditional Chinese architecture and historical sites, such as the former residences of notable figures and ancient temples, attract tourists and history enthusiasts.
Huai’an’s human resources are bolstered by educational institutions that provide a skilled workforce to support its economic activities. The city’s educational system includes schools, colleges, and vocational training centers that contribute to the development of its human capital.
In summary, Huai’an is a city with a deep historical background, strategic geographical location, rich cultural heritage, and a diverse economy. It continues to be an important regional center in Jiangsu Province, reflecting its historical significance and modern development.
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