Shangjing

Shangjing, written 上京 in Chinese, is a historical toponym meaning “Upper Capital” or “Northern Capital.” The term has been used in various periods to designate a principal northern seat of government, typically in contrast to a “Lower” or “Southern” capital.

The most notable usage refers to the Upper Capital of the Jurchen-led Jin dynasty (1115–1234). In Jin historiography, Shangjing denoted the northern capital established after the dynasty’s rise and often stood opposite another capital used for different administrative or military purposes. The Shangjing of Jin is associated with the northeastern region of China, and multiple sources place its site in areas around present-day Harbin in Heilongjiang Province, with connections to the modern Acheng District. The capital system reflected the Jin’s geographic reach and its dual-seat governance during different phases of the dynasty.

Beyond this prominent instance, Shangjing has appeared in other dynastic records as a general label for northern capitals in various periods. In modern times, the name endures in toponyms and historic references in northern China, reflecting long-standing traditions of designating a northern seat of power.

See also: capital hierarchy in Chinese history; other “jing” designations such as Zhongjing and Beijing.