Qixing

Qixing, meaning "Seven Stars" in Chinese, is a term used in geography, astronomy, and culture to denote several related concepts and places. In traditional Chinese astronomy, Qixing refers to the Seven-Star asterism, the seven bright stars that form part of the northern sky and are closely associated with the Beidou (Northern Dipper) constellation. The asterism has long been used for navigation, timekeeping, and symbolic purposes in literature and folklore.

In toponymy, Qixing is a common element in place names across China. The name often appears in districts, mountains, parks, and streets, reflecting local landmarks or scenic features that are linked to the Seven-Star motif. A well-known example is Seven-Star Park (Qixing Gongyuan) in Guilin, Guangxi, which centers on or near a local hill commonly referred to in connection with the Seven-Star imagery. The term also appears in other locales, where it denotes districts or geographic features named after prominent hills or skylines.

Cultural associations with the Seven Stars are wide-ranging in Chinese tradition. The Seven-Star motif is linked to auspiciousness, guidance, and celestial order, and it continues to appear in modern place names, tourism branding, and cultural references. While the most prominent usage is geographical, the concept remains a recognizable symbol of the night sky in Chinese heritage.