It is often said that the three most prominent cities in China are Xi’an, Beijing, and Shanghai; Xi’an represents the past, Beijing the present, and Shanghai the future. 

Xi’an is the original capital of China (dating back over 4000 years ago). It’s a great place to see history, and offers tons of teaching jobs—in English language and other subjects. Jobs in Xi’an are also available in the arts, engineering, or business administration.

Beijing, China’s current capital city, is a thriving metropolis of history, culture, and economics. While teaching English in Beijing is again the most common work for foreigners, there are also dozens of opportunities to become an au pair. The shadows of the Forbidden City also offer positions in hospitality, international business, and international law too.

Shanghai is the best choice for jobs in China if business is your primary focus. As the world’s most densely populated city, work in Shanghai is available in marketing, investing, graphic design, supply chain management, and so much more. Its history as a trading port coupled with its recent rise as one of the world’s top investment centers, makes Shanghai a true cultural and intellectual experience for all.

“Small Town” China. If you are looking for a less traditional China experience and hoping to get out into the smaller cities, you may enjoy working in Hangzhou or Kunming. Hangzhou is consistently voted one of the most beautiful cities in China—with its world famous West Lake—and is one of the few cities in China that maintains historical architecture and old world culture. Teaching English is again the most common job in Hangzhou, but positions are plentiful throughout the city. Kunming also offers English teaching placements, but is a competitive site for journalism and sports management enthusiasts, so jobs in both of these fields are available.