A new-energy powerhouse where Trina Solar leads global photovoltaics and CRRC builds next-generation rail transit.
Changzhou, a mid-sized city in the heart of the Yangtze River Delta, has earned its reputation as China's "New Energy Capital." The city is headquarters to Trina Solar, one of the world's largest photovoltaic panel manufacturers, and a major base for CRRC—the state-owned rolling stock giant that builds high-speed trains and subway cars for cities worldwide.
The city's transformation from textile center to clean-tech powerhouse mirrors China's industrial evolution. Changzhou now hosts one of the country's most advanced robotics industrial parks and a growing cluster of new materials companies. Its GDP of over one trillion yuan places it among China's wealthiest prefecture-level cities.
Changzhou balances its industrial dynamism with impressive cultural assets. Tianning Temple's towering pagoda, the family-friendly China Dinosaur Park, and the ancient Yancheng ruins offer diverse attractions. The nearby Tianmu Lake and Nanshan Bamboo Sea provide natural escapes into bamboo forests and hot spring resorts.
Changzhou's history spans over 3,200 years, beginning with the founding of the Yancheng settlement during the Spring and Autumn Period (771-476 BC). The triple-moated city of Yancheng served as the capital of the Yan State and remains one of the best-preserved ancient city sites in China.
During the Sui and Tang dynasties, the construction of the Grand Canal brought prosperity to Changzhou. The city became a major transport hub and trading center for grain, silk, and tea. Tianning Temple, built in 645 AD, became one of the most important Buddhist centers in southeastern China.
The Ming and Qing periods saw Changzhou emerge as a center for textile manufacturing, particularly cotton weaving. The city's comb-making industry also flourished, making Changzhou famous throughout China for its fine hair combs.
The reform era after 1978 transformed Changzhou into an industrial powerhouse. The city's entrepreneurs pioneered township enterprises that grew into modern corporations. The most dramatic shift came in the 2000s when Changzhou bet heavily on solar energy, establishing the infrastructure that would attract Trina Solar and create the city's new-energy ecosystem.
Changzhou's economy, with a GDP exceeding one trillion yuan, is anchored by three pillar industries: new energy, rail transit equipment, and intelligent manufacturing.
The new energy sector is the city's most dynamic growth driver. Trina Solar, headquartered here since 1997, has shipped over 100 GW of solar modules globally. The Changzhou Photovoltaic Industrial Park hosts a complete supply chain from silicon ingot production to module assembly. The city also manufactures lithium batteries and electric vehicle components.
Rail transit equipment manufacturing is the second pillar. CRRC Changzhou produces electric locomotives, high-speed train carriages, and subway cars for domestic and international markets. The facility has supplied trains to over 20 countries including Australia, Argentina, and Ethiopia.
Robotics and intelligent manufacturing represent Changzhou's future. The Changzhou Robotics Park houses over 100 companies specializing in industrial robots, collaborative robots, and automation equipment. New materials, particularly carbon fiber and advanced composites, form a growing sector.
The traditional textile and garment industry, while smaller than before, has upgraded to technical textiles and functional fabrics. Tourism centered on Dinosaur Park and Tianmu Lake adds billions to the local economy.
Discover the culinary treasures of Changzhou, from traditional street food to imperial cuisine.
Changzhou Benniu Airport (20km)
Changzhou Station (1h to Nanjing, 1.5h to Shanghai, 4.5h to Beijing)
Metro Lines 1 and 2 connecting north-south and east-west corridors
Mar - May
Pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers in Hongmei Park.
Jun - Aug
Hot and humid. Dinosaur Park water attractions are a hit.
Sep - Nov
Golden autumn—best season for hiking at Nanshan Bamboo Sea.
Dec - Feb
Cold but dry. Red plum blossoms at Hongmei Park in February.
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