Jincheng (晋城)

1. Introduction

Jincheng City is a prefecture-level city under the jurisdiction of Shanxi Province, People's Republic of China, located in the southeastern part of Shanxi Province. The city borders Linfen City and Yuncheng City to the west, Changzhi City to the north, Xinxiang City of Henan Province to the east, and Jiaozuo City and Jiyuan City of Henan Province to the south. Situated at the southeastern edge of the Loess Plateau, it lies among the Taihang Mountains, Wangwu Mountains, Zhongtiao Mountains, and Danzhu Ridge, with the Jincheng Basin in the central area. The Dan River flows through the eastern part and the Qin River through the western part, both running from north to south across the city. Jincheng derives its name from the event during the early Warring States period when the states of Han, Zhao, and Wei partitioned the state of Jin, and the ruler of Jin was subsequently enfeoffed here. The People's Government of Jincheng City is located at No. 289, West Fengtai Street, Cheng District.

Historically, Jincheng has also been known as Jianxing Commandery, Jianzhou, Zezhou, and Zezhou Prefecture. It currently administers one district, one county-level city, and four counties, aligning with the historical territory of ancient Zezhou Prefecture. With a long and rich history, abundant cultural heritage, and convenient transportation—including an extensive network of roads and railways—Jincheng has served since ancient times as the gateway from the Three Jin regions to the Central Plains. It has historically been referred to as the "Gateway of the Three Jin and the Shield of Hedong."

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2. History

Jincheng boasts a long history. Artifacts unearthed from the Gaodu, Tashuihe, and Xiachuan sites indicate human habitation in the area as early as the late Paleolithic period, around 20,000 years ago. The Tashuihe site, dating back approximately 26,000 years, along with the Xiaonanhai site, represents the middle Paleolithic period. The discovery of fine stone tools such as polished-back knives and arrowheads at the Xiachuan site demonstrates the maturity of microlithic technology in North China by the late Paleolithic period.

2.1 Ancient Times: The Imperial Domain

In ancient times, legendary Chinese cultural progenitors Yao, Shun, Yu, and Tang were active in the area of present-day southern Shanxi. Jincheng was part of the "Imperial Domain," giving rise to a series of myths including Nüwa Mending the Heavens, Fuxi Drawing the Trigrams, Jingwei Filling the Sea, the Foolish Old Man Moving Mountains, Shennong Sowing Grains, Yao Enfeoffing Danzhu, Chiyou Smelting Iron, Shun "Farming at Mount Li and Fishing at Huoze," Yu Chiseling the Stone Gate, and Tang of Shang Praying for Rain at Sanglin.

Legend holds that Nüwa smelted stones to mend the heavens at the Wahuang Cave on Mount Fu in the present-day suburbs of Jincheng City. Emperor Yao enfeoffed his son Danzhu at present-day Danzhu Ridge in Gaoping. Yu chiseled the stone gate along the banks of the Huoze River in present-day Yangcheng. Shennong gathered the five grains and tasted various herbs at present-day Yangtou Mountain in Gaoping. The Foolish Old Man moved the Taihang and Wangwu mountains. The ancient text Mozi records, "Shun farmed at Mount Li (present-day Shunwangping on Mount Li in Qinshui) and fished at Huoze (present-day Yangcheng)." The Biography of King Mu of Zhou also notes that King Mu of Zhou "rested at Huoze to observe the mulberry growers and then drank at Sanglin."

2.2 Yao and Shun Period: The Region of Jizhou, Within the Imperial Capital's Domain

Emperor Zhuanxu established the Nine Provinces to rule over myriad states, with Jincheng belonging to Jizhou. The Study of Geography states: "What Zhuanxu established, Emperor Ku inherited, creating the Nine Provinces to rule over myriad states."

During the time of Yao of Tao and Tang, Yao tasked Yu with controlling the floods. After Yu succeeded in flood control, he re-divided the land into the Nine Provinces. This area was part of Jizhou, within the "Imperial Capital's Domain." (The Tribute of Yu states: He channeled the waters from Hukou to Leishou, passed by Dizhu and Xicheng (present-day Xicheng Mountain in Yangcheng), reached Wangwu, Taihang, and Hengshan, and finally reached the sea at Jieshi.)

Shun established the Yu dynasty. Emperor Shun, inheriting Yao's system, first divided the land into Twelve Provinces, with this area belonging to Jizhou. (The Twelve Provinces were Ji, Yan, Qing, Yu, Xu, Bing, Jing, Yang, Liang, Yong, You, and Ying.) Zuo Zhuan states: "The eastern part of Ji, Mount Dan, was separated to form Bing; the northeastern part, Mount Yiwulu, was separated to form Ying."

2.3 Xia and Shang Periods: Jizhou, Land Within the Domain

Xia Qi founded the Xia dynasty, and the Twelve Provinces were recombined into the Nine Provinces, with this area belonging to Jizhou. The Detailed Interpretation of the Tribute of Yu states: "Xia conformed to Jizhou, the same as in Yao's time."

At the end of the Xia dynasty, Jie was tyrannical. Tang of Shang attacked Xia Jie. Jie resided at Tianmen (present-day urban and suburban areas of Jincheng City) and initially moved to Chuidu (present-day Gaodu, famous for producing Chui Ji jade. Duke Xian of Jin, when borrowing a route to attack Guo, once presented a Chui Ji jade disc to the State of Yu). Strategies of the Warring States states: "Jie of Xia, named Lü Kui, resided at Tianmen. Tang of Shang attacked Xia Jie, and Jie initially moved to Chui."

During the Yin-Shang period, the area included the State of Shang Gai. Zu Yi established his capital at Gengcheng (present-day Hejin), within the Imperial Domain. Tang of Shang prayed for rain at Sanglin, received rain, and subsequently composed the Sanglin music (present-day Sanglin Township southeast of Yangcheng, Jincheng City).

2.4 Western Zhou Period: Jizhou, State of Yuan

During the Zhou dynasty, it belonged to Jizhou. In the thirteenth year of King Wu of Zhou, he enfeoffed his sixteenth younger brother at Yuan, establishing the State of Yuan. Ancient history states: "Among King Wen's descendants was Yuan." (The State of Yuan was located northwest of present-day Jiyuan, anciently part of Gaodu. Su Dai's reference to "those with Gaodu of Zhou" included Yuan Township. Zuo Zhuan states: "The King gave Zheng Gaodu." In the thirty-third year of King Mu of Zhou, King Mu toured, passed via the Di road over the Taihang Mountains, crossed Huoze (present-day Yangcheng), built the Fan Palace, observed the local mulberry farmers, and hunted there.)

2.5 Spring and Autumn Period: States of Mizi, Lingze, Xi, Yuan, and Jin

During the Spring and Autumn period, the area included the states of Mizi, Lingze, Xi, and Yuan, later becoming part of the State of Jin. (In the ninth year of King Cheng of Zhou, his younger brother Shuyu was enfeoffed at Tang. His son Xiefu changed the name to Jin. In the first year of King Ping of Zhou, Jin was granted Henei as a dependency, and Jin began to grow powerful. In the seventeenth year of King Hui of Zhou, Duke Xian of Jin sent his heir, Shensheng, to attack the Red Di's Dongshan Gaoluo clan, defeating the Di people at present-day Jisang in Yangcheng. In the thirteenth year of King Xiang of Zhou, the Marquis of Jin besieged the State of Yuan. Yuan surrendered, and Yuan Boguan was moved to Yi, with Zhao Cui appointed as the Grand Master of Yuan. In the twenty-eighth year, Duke Xiang of Jin campaigned west against Ba and Shu, relocating their lords to Bagong in Gaodu. Present-day Bagong Town in the suburbs of Jincheng City derives its name from this. In the twenty-second year of King Ling of Zhou, Duke Zhuang of Qi attacked Jin, ascended the Taihang Mountains, and enfeoffed Shaoshui (present-day Qinshui). Zuo Zhuan, 23rd Year of Duke Xiang records: "The Marquis of Qi then attacked Jin. He took Zhao Ge, divided his forces into two columns, entered Mengmen, and ascended Taihang.")

By the end of the Spring and Autumn period, settlements such as Gaodu, Huoze, Duanshi, and Xuanshi had been established within present-day Jincheng City. (The Bamboo Annals states: In the seventh year of King Weilie of Zhou, Zhao Huan built the city of Xuanshi. In the seventeenth year, Jin took Xuanshi and Huoze. In the twentieth year, Marquis Xiao of Zhao seized Duanshi from the ruler of Jin. When Chu besieged Han's Yongshi, Han demanded troops and grain from Eastern Zhou. Su Dai persuaded Han to give Gaodu to Eastern Zhou. In the sixteenth year of King Cheng of Zhou, Marquis Wu of Wei, Marquis Ai of Han, and Marquis Jing of Zhao deposed their lord, Duke Jing of Jin, making him a commoner and relocating him to be supported at the city of Duanshi (present-day Qinshui). Subsequently, the three families partitioned Jin.)

2.6 Warring States Period: States of Wei, Han, and Zhao

During the Warring States period, the area first belonged to Wei, then changed hands between Han and Zhao. (In the twenty-fifth year of King Lie of Zhou, Bai Qi of Qin attacked Zhao, capturing the Guanglang City. Kuodizhi states Guanglang City was west of Gaoping in Zezhou (present-day west of Gaoping City, Jincheng). In the fifty-third year of King Nan of Zhou, Bai Qi of Qin attacked Han, capturing the Yewang County in present-day Jiaozuo, Henan. Feng Ting, the Governor of Shangdang, surrendered the 17 cities of Shangdang to Zhao. In the fifty-fifth year, the Qin general Bai Qi defeated Zhao at present-day Gaoping, slaughtering over 400,000 surrendered Zhao soldiers. In the third year of King Zhuangxiang of Qin, the Qin general Meng Ao captured Gaodu from Wei.)

2.7 Qin, Han, Cao Wei, and Western Jin Periods: Southern Shangdang, Sili Province, Bingzhou Inspectorate

During the Qin dynasty, it was one of the two Shangdang commanderies (north and south). After Qin Shi Huang unified the empire and divided it into 36 commanderies, the area was divided between the Hedong and Shangdang commanderies. (Hedong Commandery had Huoze; Shangdang Commandery had Gaodu.)

In the fifth year of the Yuanfeng era (106 BC) of Emperor Wu of Han, commanderies and kingdoms were organized into 13 provincial divisions: Sili Province's Hedong Commandery included Huoze and Duanshi; Bingzhou Inspectorate's Shangdang Commandery included Xuanshi, Gaodu, and Yang'a; Sili Province's Henei Commandery included Qinshui.

In the fifth year of the Zhongping era (188 AD) of Emperor Ling of Han, the three-tier system of province, commandery, and county was established. The area was divided among Hedong Commandery under the Sili Colonel, Henei Commandery under the Sili Colonel, and Shangdang Commandery under Bingzhou Province, with administrative divisions similar to the Western Han. Bian Xin was enfeoffed at Yang'a City, establishing the Marquisate of Yang'a, and Deng Li was enfeoffed at Huoze City, establishing the Marquisate of Huoze.

During the Cao Wei period, Cao Cao, as Governor of Jizhou, unified the north and restored the ancient Nine Provinces system. Jizhou governed nine commanderies, with this area divided among Henei, Pingyang, and Shangdang commanderies. (In the eighth year of the Zhengshi era (247 AD), ten cities from Hedong were separated to form Pingyang Commandery.)

In the first year of the Taikang era (280 AD) of the Western Jin dynasty, the empire was divided into 19 provinces and commanderies. The area was divided among Pingyang Commandery of Sizhou, Henei Commandery of Sizhou, and Shangdang Commandery of Bingzhou. Pingyang Commandery of Sizhou had Huoze and Duanshi; Shangdang Commandery of Bingzhou had Xuanshi and Gaodu; Henei Commandery of Sizhou had Qinshui. Yang'a was abolished.

2.8 Sixteen Kingdoms Period: Han Zhao and Later Zhao

After Emperor Hui of Western Jin, the area fell under the control of Liu Yuan of Han Zhao and later Shi Le of Later Zhao, with detailed administrative divisions unclear. (In the second year of the Yongjia era (308 AD) of Emperor Huai, Liu Yuan moved his capital to Hedong and declared himself emperor. In the third year, he moved his capital to Pingyang, and the Bingzhou region all came under Liu Yuan's control. When Liu Yao moved his capital to Chang'an, the lands east of Pingyang fell to Shi Le of Later Zhao.)

2.9 Eastern Jin and Northern Dynasties Period: Jianxing Commandery, Jianzhou, Jianzhou Circuit Branch Department

In the eleventh year of Emperor Xiaowu of Eastern Jin (383 AD), Murong Yong of Western Yan declared himself emperor, separated Pingyang and Shangdang, and established Jianxing Commandery, with its seat at Yang'a City. From then on, the commandery administration began to be unified.

In the second year of the Yong'an era (529 AD) of Northern Wei, Jianxing Commandery was changed to Jianzhou, governing four commanderies: Gaodu, Changping, Anping, and Taining. (Gaodu Commandery governed Gaodu and Yang'a, with its seat at Gaodu City. Changping Commandery governed Gaoping and Xuanshi, with its seat at Xuanshi. Anping Commandery governed Huoze and Duanshi, with its seat at Duanshi. Taining Commandery governed Dongyong'an, Xihe, Xihuoze, and Gaoyan, with its seat at Dongyong'an.) Huaizhou was added, with Qinshui County of Henei Commandery belonging to it.

In the seventh year of the Tianbao era (556 AD) of Emperor Wenxuan of Northern Qi, the Jianzhou Circuit Branch Department was established, stationed at Gaodu, governing three commanderies: Gaodu, Changping, and Anping. (Taining Commandery was abolished and became Yongning, and Xuanshi was merged into Gaoping.)

In the third year of the Jiande era (574 AD) of Emperor Wu of Northern Zhou, the name Jianzhou was restored, with Jianzhou governing Gaoping and Anping commanderies (Gaodu and Changping commanderies were merged into Gaoping Commandery), with its seat at Gaodu City.

2.10 Sui, Tang, Five Dynasties, and Song Periods: Zezhou

In the third year of the Kaihuang era (583 AD) of Emperor Wen of Sui, the emperor abolished commanderies, merging them into prefectures, and changed Jianzhou to Zezhou, named after the Huoze River within its territory. In the sixteenth year (596 AD), Lingchuan was established from part of Gaoping. In the eighteenth year (598 AD), Gaodu was renamed Danchuan, and Yongning was renamed Qinshui. In the third year of the Daye era (607 AD), prefectures were changed back to commanderies, establishing Changping Commandery, with its seat at Danchuan, governing six counties: Danchuan, Qinshui, Duanshi, Huoze, Gaoping, and Lingchuan. In the second year of the Yining era (618 AD), Changping Commandery was changed back to Zezhou.

In the first year of the Wude era (618 AD) of Tang, parts of Zezhou were separated to establish Zezhou, Gaizhou, and Jianzhou prefectures. In the early Zhenguan era (627 AD), Gaizhou, Jianzhou, and Zezhou were merged back into Zezhou, still governing six counties, as an upper prefecture.

In the early Zhenguan era (627 AD) of Tang, the empire was divided into 10 circuits, with Zezhou belonging to Hedong Circuit.

In the twenty-first year of the Kaiyuan era (733 AD) of Tang, the empire was divided into 15 circuits, with Investigating Commissioners established. Zezhou belonged to the Hedong Circuit Investigating Commissioner.

In the first year of the Tianbao era (742 AD) of Tang, Zezhou was changed to Gaoping Commandery. In the early Qianyuan era (758 AD), it was changed back to Zezhou.

After the Five Dynasties, with warlord fragmentation, Zezhou successively belonged to Later Liang, Later Jin, Later Tang, Later Han, and Later Zhou. (In the first year of the Guangshun era (951 AD) of Emperor Taizu of Later Zhou, Later Zhou troops crossed Wuling, the present-day border between Qinshui and Yicheng, and defeated Liu Chong, cousin of Liu Zhiyuan. In March of the first year of the Xiande era (954 AD) of Emperor Shizong of Later Zhou, Emperor Shizong of Zhou achieved a great victory over Northern Han at present-day Bagongyuan north of Jincheng City's suburbs.)

In the fourth year of the Taiping Xingguo era (980 AD) of Northern Song, Song armies campaigned north, and Zezhou (also called Gaoping Commandery) was incorporated into Song territory.

In the third year of the Zhidao era (997 AD) of Northern Song, Song divided the empire's prefectures and armies into 15 circuits. Zezhou (Gaoping Commandery) belonged to Hedong Circuit, with its jurisdiction unchanged.

2.11 Jin and Yuan Periods: South Zezhou, Zhongchang Army, Zezhou Sihousi

In the fifth year of the Tianhui era (1128 AD) of Jin, Zezhou was changed to South Zezhou. In the third year of the Tiande era (1151 AD), it was renamed Zezhou, belonging to Hedong South Circuit.In the second year of the Jin Dynasty's Yuanguang era (1223), Zezhou was renamed the Zhongchang Army Jiedushi, governing one prefecture and five counties.

In the first year of the Yuan Dynasty's Zhongtong era (1260), it was reorganized into the Zezhou Sihousi, still governing six counties, and was placed under the Pingyang Route of the Zhongshu Sheng, as part of the interior region.

In the ninth year of the Yuan Dynasty's Dade era (1305), it remained as the Zezhou Sihousi, but was transferred to the Jinning Route of the Zhongshu Sheng, under the supervision of the Hedong Shanxi Dao Suzheng Lianfangsi.

2.12 Ming and Qing Dynasties: Zezhou Prefecture

In the second year of the Ming Dynasty's Hongwu era (1369), Zezhou was elevated to a directly administered prefecture under the Shanxi Chengxuan Buzhengshisi, governing four counties: Yangcheng, Gaoping, Lingchuan, and Qinshui. The prefectural seat, Jincheng, was incorporated into the province. In the eleventh year of the Hongwu era, the Ningshan Guard was established at the prefectural seat.

In the sixth year of the Qing Dynasty's Yongzheng era (1728), Zezhou was elevated to a prefecture under the Shanxi Province Buzhengshisi. Fengtai was established at the original prefectural seat, governing five counties: Fengtai, Gaoping, Yangcheng, Lingchuan, and Qinshui. The prefectural seat was located in Fengtai City.

2.13 Republican Era

In the third year of the Republic of China, prefectures were abolished nationwide, and Zezhou Prefecture was dissolved. The counties originally under Zezhou Prefecture were transferred to the Jining Circuit. In the seventeenth year of the Republic of China, the Jining Circuit was abolished, and the area was directly administered by Shanxi Province. During the War of Resistance Against Japan, the Communist Party of China established the Shanxi-Hebei-Shandong-Henan Border Region Government, and the entire area was placed under the leadership of the Taiyue Second and Fourth and Taihang Eighth Special Anti-Japanese Base Areas. In June 1945, Jincheng, Gaoping, Yangcheng, Lingchuan, and Qinshui were successively liberated. In September 1948, the North China People's Government was established. In October 1948, Jincheng City was established and, together with Qinshui, Gaoping, Yangcheng, and Lingchuan, was placed under the leadership of the Taiyue and Taihang Administrative Offices of the North China People's Government. From 1958 to April 1985, the Jincheng area was under the leadership of the Southeastern Shanxi Region. In July 1983, Jincheng City was re-established as a city directly under Shanxi Province, divided into urban and suburban districts. In May 1985, with the approval of the State Council, the Southeastern Shanxi Region was abolished and replaced by the prefecture-level Jincheng City. The four counties originally under the Southeastern Shanxi Region—Gaoping, Yangcheng, Qinshui, and Lingchuan—were placed under the leadership of Jincheng City as its administrative divisions. Its jurisdiction aligns with the historical territories of Jianxing, Jianzhou, Zezhou, and Zezhou Prefecture.

3. Geography

Jincheng City is located in the southeast of Shanxi Province. To the west, it borders Yuncheng City and Linfen City across the Zhongtiao Mountains. To the north, it adjoins Changzhi City along the Danzhuling and Yangtou Mountains. To the east and south, it neighbors Jiyuan, Jiaozuo, and Xinxiang in Henan Province, backed by the Taihang and Wangwu Mountains. It faces the Zhengzhou-Kaifeng-Luoyang Central Plains Urban Agglomeration across the Yellow River, looking towards Henan's provincial capital Zhengzhou, the ancient capital of nine dynasties Kaifeng, and Luoyang. To the northeast, it gazes upon the ancient capital of seven dynasties Anyang and Handan in Hebei. Since ancient times, it has been the gateway from Shanxi to the Central Plains region. Its territory spans 160 km from east to west and 100 km from north to south, with a total area of 9,490 km², accounting for approximately 6% of Shanxi Province's total area.

3.1 Topography

Jincheng City is entirely situated in the center of the Jincheng Basin, specifically the basin of the middle and lower reaches of the Dan River and Qin River. The landforms are predominantly medium and medium-low mountains, followed by low mountains and hills, with some intermountain basins, broad valleys, and high-medium mountains. The city's planar outline roughly resembles an oval, with the overall terrain forming a dustpan shape that is high in the north and low in the central and southern parts. Plains, hills, and mountains account for 12.9%, 28.5%, and 58.6% of the city's total area, respectively. This translates to 1,221.6 km² of plains, 2,704 km² of hills, and 5,564.4 km² of mountains.

Most areas within the city have an elevation above 700m. The highest point is located at Shunwangping on the western side, with an elevation of 2,321.8m. The lowest point is in the downstream valleys of the Qin River and Dan River in the south, with an elevation below 300m, resulting in a relative height difference of over 2,000 meters.

3.2 Climate

Jincheng City is located in the central part of the warm temperate zone in the mid-latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere, characterized by a temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate. The spring is dry and windy; the summer is hot and rainy; the autumn is cool and pleasant; the winter is dry and cold. The average annual precipitation ranges from 624.6 to 680.6 mm, and the average annual temperature ranges from 7.9 to 11.7°C. It is a livable city with warm winters and cool summers.

Average Meteorological Data for Jincheng City (1981-2010)

| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year | |-----------|---------|---------|---------|---------|---------|---------|---------|---------|---------|----------|----------|----------|----------| | Avg. High °C (°F) | 3.7 (38.7) | 6.6 (43.9) | 12.1 (53.8) | 19.8 (67.6) | 24.9 (76.8) | 28.6 (83.5) | 29.2 (84.6) | 27.9 (82.2) | 23.9 (75.0) | 18.6 (65.5) | 11.8 (53.2) | 5.6 (42.1) | 17.7 (63.9) | | Daily Mean °C (°F) | -2.2 (28.0) | 0.7 (33.3) | 5.9 (42.6) | 13.2 (55.8) | 18.6 (65.5) | 22.7 (72.9) | 24.2 (75.6) | 22.8 (73.0) | 18.3 (64.9) | 12.5 (54.5) | 5.6 (42.1) | -0.3 (31.5) | 11.8 (53.3) | | Avg. Low °C (°F) | -6.9 (19.6) | -4.0 (24.8) | 0.8 (33.4) | 7.2 (45.0) | 12.6 (54.7) | 17.1 (62.8) | 20.0 (66.0) | 18.9 (57.0) | 13.9 (45.5) | 7.5 (33.3) | 0.7 (23.2) | -4.9 (44.4) | 6.9 | | Avg. Precipitation mm (inches) | 7.4 (0.29) | 10.4 (0.41) | 22.5 (0.89) | 24.5 (0.96) | 55.6 (2.19) | 72.0 (2.83) | 122.9 (4.84) | 127.9 (5.04) | 74.3 (2.93) | 34.9 (1.37) | 17.1 (0.67) | 6.4 (0.25) | 575.9 (22.67) | | Avg. Relative Humidity % | 53 | 56 | 55 | 54 | 58 | 62 | 75 | 78 | 73 | 65 | 58 | 52 | 62 |

3.3 Hydrology

Jincheng City is a relatively water-rich area in North China, with total water resources amounting to 2.149 billion cubic meters. The per capita water resource availability is 872 cubic meters, higher than the average levels of Shanxi and surrounding provinces/regions. The city is crisscrossed by rivers, primarily belonging to the Dan River and Qin River basins, as well as tributaries of the Wei River. The main tributaries of the Qin River include the Chang River, Baishui River, Lichuan River, Longwan River, Fan River, Duanshi River, and Huoze River. The main tributaries of the Dan River include the East Dan River, East Da River, Bagong River, Shipen River, and Yonglu River. The main tributaries of the Wei River include the Qi River, Xiangmo River, and Wujiawan River. The main river flows generally from north to south, while tributaries mostly flow from west to east. The total water resource volume is 2.149 billion cubic meters, of which river runoff accounts for 1.96 billion cubic meters, groundwater resources account for 969 million cubic meters, and overlapping resources account for 780 million cubic meters.

• Dan River: The mother river of Jincheng, anciently known as Zeshui, Xuan Shui, and Danshui. It originates from Danzhuling in Gaoping City and flows into the Qin River in Qinyang City, Henan Province. It is 121.5 km long with a basin area of 3,000 km².
• Qin River: Originates from Huo Mountain in Qinyuan County, Shanxi Province, and converges into the Yellow River near Wuzhi County, Henan Province. It is 450 km long with a basin area of 12,900 km².
• Baishui River: Originates from Baima Temple Mountain north of Jincheng urban area and flows into the Dan River in Zezhou County, Jincheng City. It is 61 km long with a basin area of 0.04 km².
• Mang River

3.4 Flora and Fauna

Jincheng City hosts two national-level nature reserves: the Lishan National Nature Reserve and the Shanxi Yangcheng Manghe Macaque National Nature Reserve. It also has provincial-level reserves such as the Lingchuan Southern Yew Provincial Nature Reserve, the Zezhou County Zezhou Macaque Provincial Wildlife Nature Reserve, and the Yangcheng County Yanshan Provincial Forest Ecology Nature Reserve. Animals within these reserves include the leopard, sika deer, Taihang macaque, brown eared pheasant, and giant salamander.

5. Administrative Divisions

Jincheng City currently administers 1 district, 4 counties, and oversees 1 county-level city on behalf of the province.

• District: Chengqu (Urban District)
• County-level City: Gaoping City
• Counties: Qinshui County, Yangcheng County, Lingchuan County, Zezhou County

| Division Code | Division Name | Chinese Pinyin | Area (km²) | Resident Population (2020 Census) | Government Seat | Postal Code | Subdistricts | Towns | Townships | |-------------------|-------------------|--------------------|----------------|---------------------------------------|---------------------|-----------------|------------------|-----------|---------------| | 140500 | Jincheng City | Jìnchéng | 9,424.87 | 2,194,545 | Chengqu | 048000 | 10 | 52 | 15 | | 140502 | Chengqu | Chéngqū | 142.59 | 574,665 | Dongjie Subdistrict | 048000 | 7 | 1 | | | 140521 | Qinshui County| Qìnshuǐ Xiàn | 2,658.21 | 196,528 | Longgang Town | 048200 | | 7 | 5 | | 140522 | Yangcheng County| Yángchéng Xiàn | 1,917.52 | 350,474 | Fengcheng Town | 048100 | | 12 | 3 | | 140524 | Lingchuan County| Língchuān Xiàn | 1,701.79 | 204,825 | Chongwen Town | 048300 | | 7 | 4 | | 140525 | Zezhou County | Zézhōu Xiàn | 2,024.41 | 414,999 | Jincun Town | 048000 | | 16 | | | 140581 | Gaoping City | Gāopíng Shì | 980.35 | 453,054 | Beicheng Subdistrict| 048400 | 3 | 9 | 3 |

6. Economy

• An industrial system comprising over 20 sectors, including coal, metallurgy, machinery, chemicals, building materials, electronics, textiles, ceramics, papermaking, plastics, and food processing, alongside traditional ironware manufacturing. Iron pots, nails, and sickles are traditional specialties.
• Agriculture encompasses grain cultivation, fruit tree farming, and animal husbandry, with township industries serving as the backbone of the rural economy.

7. Transportation

7.1 Railway

Taiyuan–Jiaozuo Railway, Houma–Yueshan Railway, Jianan Railway (the first railway in China truly invested by private capital), Zhengzhou–Taiyuan High-Speed Railway

7.2 Highway

Wanzhou Highway, Jinzhang Highway, National Highway 207 runs through the entire region, Jincheng–Jiaozuo Expressway, Jincheng–Houma Expressway, Jincheng–Jiyuan Expressway, Changzhi–Jincheng Expressway, Lingchuan–Qinshui Expressway, Jincheng Ring Expressway, Gaoping–Xinxiang Expressway (under construction). After the completion of Gaoping–Xinxiang Expressway, Jincheng will become the first prefecture-level city in Shanxi where every county is connected by expressways.

8. Education

• Higher Education: Taiyuan University of Science and Technology Jincheng Campus (Branch Campus), Jincheng Vocational and Technical College (Specialized College)
• Key High School in Shanxi Province: Jincheng No. 1 High School
• Vocational Education: Jincheng Senior Technical School, Jincheng Vocational High School, Jincheng Coal Industry Group Technical School.

9. Population

By the end of 2022, the city's permanent resident population reached 2.1893 million, an increase of 0.006 million from the previous year. Among them, the male population was 1.1107 million, and the female population was 1.0786 million, resulting in a total population sex ratio of 102.98 (with females as 100).

According to the Seventh National Population Census in 2020, the city's permanent resident population was 2,194,545. Compared with the 2,279,146 people recorded in the Sixth National Population Census, the population decreased by 84,601 over the ten-year period, a decline of 3.71%, with an average annual growth rate of -0.38%. Among them, the male population was 1,110,830, accounting for 50.62% of the total population; the female population was 1,083,715, accounting for 49.38% of the total population. The total population sex ratio (with females as 100) was 102.5. The population aged 0–14 was 301,599, accounting for 13.74% of the total population; the population aged 15–59 was 1,447,550, accounting for 65.96% of the total population; the population aged 60 and above was 445,396, accounting for 20.3% of the total population, of which the population aged 65 and above was 305,198, accounting for 13.91% of the total population. The urban population was 1,376,521, accounting for 62.72% of the total population; the rural population was 818,024, accounting for 37.28% of the total population.

The results of the 2022 population change sample survey show that the permanent resident population of Jincheng City was 2.1893 million. The number of births was 16,900, with a birth rate of 7.72‰; the number of deaths was 18,600, with a death rate of 8.47‰; the natural population growth rate was -0.76‰.

9.1 Ethnic Groups

Among the city's permanent resident population, the Han ethnic group population was 2,187,407, accounting for 99.67%; the population of various ethnic minorities was 7,138, accounting for 0.33%. Compared with the 2010 Sixth National Population Census, the Han ethnic group population decreased by 85,552, a decline of 3.76%, with its proportion of the total population decreasing by 0.05 percentage points; the population of various ethnic minorities increased by 951, a growth of 15.37%, with its proportion of the total population increasing by 0.05 percentage points.

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10. Culture

National Intangible Cultural Heritage: Zezhou Drum Storytelling, Shangdang Bangzi Opera, Bayin Music Ensemble, Zezhou Sixian Storytelling, Yangge Opera (Zezhou Yangge), Yangcheng Raw Iron Casting Technique, Legend of the White Horse Dragging the Reins, Legend of Shun, Legend of Lanke Mountain, Tuwo Old Flower Drum, Wu's Bone-Setting Therapy, Zezhou Mid-Autumn Festival Customs, Huangcheng Village Double Ninth Festival Customs, Qinshui Liu Family Qingming Ancestor Worship, Gaoping Black Pottery Craft. National-Level Historical and Cultural Famous Villages and Towns: Dayang Town in Zezhou County, Runcheng Town in Yangcheng County, Huangcheng Village in Yangcheng County, Xiwenxing Village in Qinshui County, Lianghu Village in Gaoping City, Guoyu Village in Yangcheng County, Douzhuang Village in Jiafeng Town, Qinshui County, Shangzhuang Village in Runcheng Town, Yangcheng County, Xihuangshi Village in Beiyicheng Town, Zezhou County, Suzhuang Village in Hexi Town, Gaoping City, Xiangyu Village in Zhengcun Town, Qinshui County.

10.1 Local Snacks

• Jincheng Ten Big Bowls: Jincheng Ten Big Bowls is a characteristic comprehensive cuisine of the Jincheng area in Shanxi, with a long history and legends. The ten main dishes of Jincheng Ten Big Bowls include Wood Ear Gebei, Braised Scallions, Maotou Meatballs, Fried Pork Slices, Crispy Pork, Hubo Meat, Sweet and Sour Meatballs, Yougema, Swan Eggs, Sweet Rice, etc. It forms a systematic system of cold dishes, hot dishes, soup dishes, and staple foods, distinguished by standards such as "Ten Big Bowls," "Six Six," "Eight Six," and "Eight Eight." It is a characteristic diet for weddings, funerals, and entertaining guests in this region.
• Lu Noodles: Lu Noodles is a characteristic noodle dish of Jincheng. Some people also call it "Steamed Noodles," and in other places, it is known as "Braised Noodles" or "Steamed Noodles." A closer study of the differences reveals that they are largely the same, but the noodles used are somewhat different, with slight variations in details and ingredients. "Lu Noodles" is the Jincheng term, and the preparation method largely preserves the traditional Jincheng way of making Lu Noodles. The selection of ingredients also follows Jincheng habits, with green beans, bean sprouts, and meat being essential.
• Stir-Fried Liangfen: A traditional folk snack in Jincheng City, originating from Henan and popular in Jincheng, with a history of over 100 years. First, cut the liangfen into cubes about 3-4 cm in length and width and 1 cm thick, and set aside. Heat a small amount of cooking oil in a pan, then add the cut liangfen cubes and stir-fry. Pour in vinegar and minced garlic, cover, and remove from heat once the garlic and vinegar flavors have infused. The texture is soft and tender, fragrant and spicy.
• Jincheng Hele: Classified into Clear Soup Hele, Cauliflower Hele, Hot Pot Hele, and Pickled Cabbage with Shredded Pork Hele based on the type of topping.
• Jincheng Fried Pork with Rice
• Bagong Braised Scallions
• Gaoping Ten Big Bowls: A traditional banquet in Gaoping, named for its ten main dishes. Legend has it that this cuisine originated from the Luoyang imperial water banquet introduced to Jincheng and combined with local characteristics. Another legend says it formed from tributes offered to commemorate Zhao soldiers after the Battle of Changping. The dishes in the Ten Big Bowls vary slightly across different areas of Jincheng, with Gaoping's version being the most complete and well-preserved, hence also known as Gaoping Ten Big Bowls.
• Gaoping Braised Tofu: Also known as "Bai Qi Meat." Legend has it that during the Battle of Changping, Bai Qi buried 400,000 Zhao soldiers alive. Out of hatred for Bai Qi, later generations compared tofu to Bai Qi's meat, roasting or boiling it to eat.
• Li (Li) Gezhua
• Youjiao'er
• Rolled Thin Pancakes
• Yangcheng Braised Liver, Yangcheng Date Cake
• Lingchuan Ginseng Stewed Free-Range Chicken
• Meatball Instant Noodles

11. Sister Cities

• Dallas, Texas, United States (established in 2005)
• Rome, New York, United States (established in 2008)
• Sarah Baartman District Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa (established in 2010)

4. 城市规划

• 城市空间布局结构为“两区四片”的组团式结构。

1、主城区：市级综合中心，包括行政、文化、居住、商贸服务、高新技术产业、现代物流等多种功能。

2、金村区：教育科研和文化产业创新基地，区级行政中心。

3、北石店片：具有煤炭生产职能的城市生产、生活综合片区。

4、南村（金匠）片：以清洁型工业为主的一、二类工业片区及配套生活区。

5、巴公片：以煤化工业为主的工业片区和配套生活区。

6、高都片：以旅游、休闲、居住功能为主的城市生活片区。

• 城市道路交通系统规划“二环、四射、六横、七纵”的路网骨架

“二环”：指环城高速环和主城区快速外环。

“四射”：指由城市向外辐射的四条高速公路，分别为晋长高速、晋焦高速、晋阳高速、晋济高速。

“六横”：指白水街、中原街、凤台街、东西大街、规划改线后的陵沁路、嘉南路。

“七纵”：指景西路、泽州路、文博路、兰花路、太洛路、高（高都）金（金村）公路、规划改线改造后的207国道，其中207国道为城市各组团联系的快速交通主轴。

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"After the three states divided the land of Jin, the ruler of Jin was enfeoffed here, hence it was called Jincheng." — Taiping Huanyu Ji

Urban area

Zezhou County

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Cedar

Ziwei