Zhanjiang Guangdong, China Travel Guide
From its bustling deep-water harbor to the quiet charm of its colonial-era streets, Zhanjiang invites visitors to explore its many facets. A journey into a city where the past shapes the present, and the time ahead unfolds with energy.
Zhanjiang occupies a prominent position on the southwestern coast of Guangdong Province, China. It sits strategically on the Leizhou Peninsula, a large landmass extending into the South China Sea. This peninsula forms the southernmost tip of mainland China, giving Zhanjiang its distinct maritime character.
The city's administrative structure covers a substantial area. This diverse geographical spread means Zhanjiang is not just a metropolitan center but a regional hub encompassing a variety of groundscapes.
Zhanjiang boasts a rich and complex history spanning over 1,500 years. Historically, the city was known as Guangzhouwan, a name that resonates with its colonial past. From 1898 to 1946, Guangzhouwan was leased by France, becoming a Gallic concession. The French influence is still visible in the architecture, town planning, and a certain cosmopolitan flair.
The return of Guangzhouwan to Chinese sovereignty in 1946 marked a new era for the city, which was then renamed Zhanjiang. Post-1949, Zhanjiang steadily developed into a significant port city and an important naval base for the People's Republic of China.
French Concession (Guangzhouwan)
Renamed Zhanjiang, Returned to China
Major Port & Naval Base Development
Designated as "Open City" for foreign investment
Economic & Cultural Hub
Zhanjiang today is a major port city, a naval base, and an industrial center in southern China. Its deep-water port is one of the largest and busiest within China, handling a substantial volume of cargo traffic. This port a gateway for trade.
Petrochemicals, steel production, paper manufacturing, and sugar refining are sectors. Marine aquaculture thrives due to Zhanjiang's extensive coastline and rich underwater ecosystem.
Zhanjiang is a significant agricultural region, renowned for its tropical fruits like mangoes, lychees, longans, and pineapples. These fruits are celebrated for their quality and flavor.
The city's aesthetic a blend of modern development and historical charm. Contemporary high-rises and essential services coexist with the architectural remnants of its French colonial past.
Zhanjiang has a population of approximately 7.03 million (2020 census). The city experiences a subtropical monsoon climate, identified by warm temperatures year-round.
The climate supports lush green landscapes and agricultural productivity. Its coastal location receives the benefits of sea breezes, contributing to good atmospheric quality.
~7.03 Million (2020)
Subtropical Monsoon, Warm Year-Round
Lush landscapes & coastal beauty
While an industrial center, Zhanjiang maintains cleaner air purity compared to some larger, more heavily industrialized metropolitan areas in China. This is partly due to:
One of China's largest and busiest deep-water ports, useful for trade.
Petrochemicals, steel, paper, sugar refining, and marine aquaculture.
Major producer of tropical fruits like mangoes, lychees, and pineapples.
Connects southern China with international markets.
Significant contribution to Guangdong province's GDP.
Generates substantial jobs in diverse sectors.
