China has long been a breeding ground for exceptional talent, producing famous Chinese people who have gone on to achieve global recognition.

From historical figures, film, sports, business and music, these Chinese celebrities have become global icons across the world.

Meet the Top 50 Most Influential Figures in Chinese History

Historical, Philosophers and Political Thinkers

1. Confucius: The Timeless Philosopher Who Defined Chinese Culture

Confucius (551–479 BCE) was a renowned Chinese philosopher, teacher, and political theorist whose ideas have profoundly influenced East Asian civilization.

His teachings emphasized personal and governmental morality, social relationships, and justice. It laid the foundation for Confucianism, a system of thought that has shaped Chinese culture and society for centuries.

• Lifespan: 551–479 BCE
• Birthplace: Lu State (modern-day Qufu, Shandong, China)
• Major Contributions:
  • Founded Confucianism, and pushed for personal and governmental morality, social relationships, and justice.
  • Advocated for widespread education and social harmony
  • His teachings profoundly influenced Chinese and East Asian culture, politics, and education.

2. Mao Zedong: The Revolutionary Leader Who Shaped Modern China

Mao Zedong was a Chinese communist revolutionary and the founding father of the People’s Republic of China. He served as its chairman from 1949 to 1959.

• Lifespan: 1893–1976
• Birthplace: Shaoshan, Hunan, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Implemented policies like the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution, shaping modern China’s political, social, and economic landscape.

3. Qin Shi Huang: The First Emperor Who Unified China

Qin Shi Huang was the founder of the Qin dynasty and the first emperor of a unified China.

Ascending to the throne as King Zheng of Qin at 13, he later proclaimed himself emperor in 221 BCE after conquering rival states.

• Lifespan: 259–210 BCE
• Birthplace: Handan, Zhao State (now part of modern-day China)
• Major Contributions:
  • First Emperor of China unified the Warring States and established the Qin Dynasty in 221 BCE.
  • Standardized Chinese script, currency, weights, and measures
  • His rule set the foundation for centralized imperial governance in China.
  • Commissioned the construction of the Great Wall of China and the Terracotta Army

4. Sun Yat-sen: The Founding Father of Modern China

Sun Yat-sen (1866–1925) was a pivotal Chinese revolutionary and political leader, often revered as the “Father of the Nation” in the Republic of China.

• Lifespan: 1866–1925
• Birthplace: Zhongshan, Guangdong, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Played a key role in overthrowing the Qing Dynasty
  • Founder of the Republic of China and the Kuomintang (Nationalist Party)
  • Advocated for nationalism, democracy, and people’s livelihood through the “Three Principles of the People”
  • Led the 1911 Revolution, which ended over two thousand years of imperial rule in China.

5. Lao Tzu: The Sage Behind Taoism’s Foundational Text

Lao Tzu is a legendary Chinese philosopher and the author of the Tao Te Ching, a foundational text of Taoism.

His teachings emphasize living in harmony with the Tao, which signifies the fundamental nature of the universe

• Lifespan: c. 570–c. 490 BCE
• Birthplace: Zhou Dynasty, (near modern-day Henan, China)
• Major Contributions:
  • Founder of Taoism and author of the Tao Te Ching, a fundamental text of Taoist philosophy
  • Emphasized the concept of the Tao (the Way) as the natural order of the universe
  • Advocated for simplicity, humility, and living in harmony with nature
  • His ideas influenced Chinese culture, politics, and spiritual practices for centuries.

6. Deng Xiaoping: Architect of China’s Economic Transformation

Deng Xiaoping (1904–1997) was a Chinese statesman and revolutionary who led the People’s Republic of China from 1978 to 1989.

After Mao Zedong’s death, Deng became China’s leader, steering economic reforms that transitioned the country from a planned economy to a socialist market economy.

• Lifespan: 1904–1997
• Birthplace: Guang’an, Sichuan, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Paramount leader of China from the late 1970s until the 1990s
  • Introduced major economic reforms, transitioning China to a market economy through policies like “Reform and Opening Up”
  • Overhauled China’s economic and agricultural systems, leading to rapid industrial growth and modernization
  • Played a key role in the establishment of China as a global economic power while maintaining strict political control.

7. Xi Jinping: China’s Current Leader

Xi Jinping is the current General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), President of the People’s Republic of China, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission

• Lifespan: 1953–present
• Birthplace: Beijing, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Current President of China and General Secretary of the Communist Party of China
  • Introduced the “Chinese Dream” concept, focusing on national rejuvenation and prosperity
  • Strengthened centralized control and expanded China’s global influence through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative
  • Played a significant role in shaping China’s foreign and domestic policies, including in areas like technology, military expansion, and governance.

8. Wu Zetian: China’s Sole Female Emperor

Wu Zetian (624–705 CE) was the only female emperor in Chinese history, ascending to power during the Tang Dynasty.

Initially entering the imperial court as a concubine, she adeptly navigated court politics to become empress consort alongside Emperor Gaozong.

Following his death, Wu Zetian declared herself emperor in 690 CE, establishing the short-lived Zhou Dynasty.

• Lifespan: 624–705 CE
• Birthplace: Wenshui, Shanxi, China
• Major Contributions:
  • The only female emperor in Chinese history, ruling during the Tang Dynasty
  • Consolidated power by promoting capable officials, improving the imperial bureaucracy, and expanding the civil service exams
  • Played a pivotal role in the expansion and prosperity of the Tang Empire
  • Known for her political acumen and contributions to cultural development, although her reign was marked by controversy and intrigue.

9. Zheng He: The Ming Dynasty Admiral Who Expanded China’s Maritime Horizons

Zheng He was a Chinese mariner, explorer, diplomat, and fleet admiral during the early Ming Dynasty.

• Lifespan: 1371–1433
• Birthplace: Kunyang, Yunnan, China
• Major Contributions:
  • A prominent Ming Dynasty explorer and diplomat
  • Led seven major naval expeditions to Southeast Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, and East Africa
  • Promoted China’s cultural and political influence through his voyages, fostering trade and diplomatic relations
  • Played a crucial role in the early globalization of maritime trade, establishing China’s presence in distant regions.

10. Sun Tzu

Sun Tzu was a Chinese military strategist and philosopher who lived during the Eastern Zhou period (770–256 BCE).

He is credited as the author of The Art of War, an influential treatise on military strategy that has impacted both Eastern and Western thought.

• Lifespan: c. 544–496 BCE
• Birthplace: State of Wu (modern-day Jiangsu, China)
• Major Contributions:
  • Author of The Art of War, a classic text on strategy, military tactics, and leadership
  • His principles are widely applied not only in warfare but also in business, sports, and personal development
  • Emphasized the importance of flexibility, deception, and understanding both oneself and the enemy in achieving victory
  • His ideas have had a profound influence on military strategy and thought worldwide.

11. Empress Dowager Cixi: The Concubine Who Modernized China

Empress Dowager Cixi was a formidable figure in Chinese history. She rose from a low-ranking concubine to become the de facto ruler of China for nearly half a century.

• Lifespan: 1835–1908
• Birthplace: Beijing, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Empress Dowager of China, who effectively ruled the Qing Dynasty from 1861 until her death
  • Played a pivotal role in managing the imperial court and political affairs during a time of significant reform and foreign pressure
  • Known for consolidating power and influencing key decisions, including resisting modernization and reform efforts.

12. Chiang Kai-shek: Nationalist Leader

Chiang Kai-shek (1887–1975) was a prominent Chinese military and political leader who played a pivotal role in 20th-century Chinese history.

As a close associate of Sun Yat-sen, he became a leading figure in the Chinese Nationalist Party.

• Lifespan: 1887–1975
• Birthplace: Xikou, Zhejiang, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Military and political leader who served as the leader of the Republic of China from 1928 to 1975
  • Led China during the Second Sino-Japanese War and the Chinese Civil War
  • Played a key role in shaping modern Chinese history, especially through his leadership of the Nationalist government and later in Taiwan.

13. Mulan: Legendary Warrior and Symbol of Bravery

Mulan is a legendary figure from ancient Chinese folklore, celebrated for her bravery and filial piety.

According to the “Ballad of Mulan,” she disguised herself as a man to take her elderly father’s place in the army, serving with distinction and bringing honor to her family and country.

• Lifespan: Traditionally considered to be 6th century, though her exact historical existence is debated ·
• Birthplace: Unknown (often depicted as originating from the northern regions of China) ·
• Major Contributions:
  • Legendary figure celebrated for disguising herself as a man to take her father’s place in the Chinese military
  • Symbol of bravery, filial piety, and gender equality in Chinese folklore
  • Her story has inspired countless adaptations, including the famous Ballad of Mulan, films, and other cultural works.

Famous Chinese Artists, Actors, and Directors

In entertainment, China’s famous person has gained fame domestically and internationally.

Actors and actresses captivate audiences with compelling performances. Famous Chinese personalities in television and film attract massive followings across Asia and the West, showcasing China’s growing influence.

14. Jackie Chan

• Lifespan: 1954–present
• Birthplace: Hong Kong, China
• Major Contributions:
  • A world-renowned actor, martial artist, and film producer, famous for combining martial arts with slapstick comedy
  • Starred in numerous successful films like Drunken Master, Police Story, and Rush Hour, popularizing martial arts in the West
  • Known for performing his own stunts and pioneering new action techniques in cinema
  • Active philanthropist, contributing to various causes such as education and disaster relief.

15. Bruce Lee

• Lifespan: 1940–1973
• Birthplace: San Francisco, USA
• Major Contributions:
  • Martial artist, actor, and filmmaker who popularized martial arts worldwide
  • Left a lasting legacy through his philosophies and innovative fight techniques.
  • Revolutionized action films and set a new standard for martial arts choreography.

16. Jet Li

• Lifespan: 1963–present
• Birthplace: Beijing, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Martial artist and actor known for his roles in films like Once Upon a Time in China and The Expendables
  • Helped bring kung fu films to a global audience.
  • Popularized Chinese martial arts in Hollywood

17. Zhang Yi Mou

• Lifespan: 1951–present
• Birthplace: Xi’an, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Renowned film director, known for films such as Red Sorghum and Hero
  • Key figure in Chinese cinema, whose work often explores Chinese culture and history
  • Won numerous international awards for his films.

18. Ang Lee

• Lifespan: 1954–present
• Birthplace: Pingtung, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Academy Award-winning director known for films like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Life of Pi
  • Helped bridge Eastern and Western film industries
  • Known for his ability to bring complex emotional narratives to the big screen

19. Wong Kar-wai

• Lifespan: 1956–present
• Birthplace: Shanghai, China
• Major Contributions:
• Known for his unique storytelling style and innovation in cinematography.
• A major figure in Hong Kong cinema, influencing global filmmaking
• Film director known for his visually striking and emotionally intense films like In the Mood for Love

20. Tony Leung

• Lifespan: 1962–present
• Birthplace: Hong Kong, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Acclaimed actor known for his roles in In the Mood for Love and Infernal Affairs
  • Widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation
  • Known for his subtle performances and collaboration with director Wong Kar-Wai.

21. Fan Bingbing

• Lifespan: 1981–present
• Birthplace: Qingdao, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Actress and producer, known for her roles in X-Men: Days of Future Past and The White Haired Witch of Lunar Kingdom
  • A fashion icon and international star
  • One of the highest-paid actresses in China.

22. Gong Li

• Lifespan: 1965–present
• Birthplace: Shenyang, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Acclaimed actress, best known for her roles in Raise the Red Lantern and Farewell My Concubine
  • Played a key role in bringing Chinese cinema to international audiences
  • One of the most respected actresses in world cinema.

23. Zhang Ziyi

• Lifespan: 1979–present
• Birthplace: Beijing, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Starred in internationally acclaimed films such as Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and House of Flying Daggers
  • Known for her martial arts skills, acting range, and beauty
  • One of the most successful Chinese actresses globally.

24. Stephen Chow

• Lifespan: 1962–present
• Birthplace: Shanghai, China
• Major Contributions:
  • A director, producer, and actor known for his comedic films like Shaolin Soccer and Kung Fu Hustle
  • Known for his unique style of slapstick comedy and integration of martial arts in films
  • One of the most influential filmmakers in Chinese cinema.

25. Donnie Yen

• Lifespan: 1963–present
• Birthplace: Guangzhou, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Martial artist and actor, famous for his roles in Ip Man and Rogue One
  • Known for his dynamic fight choreography and contributions to the modern martial arts film genre
  • A key figure in bringing kung fu films to the international stage.

26. Jay Chou

• Lifespan: 1979–present
• Birthplace: Taipei, China
• Major Contributions:
  • A pop icon known for blending traditional Chinese music with modern pop, R&B, and hip-hop
  • His innovative music style has made him a cultural phenomenon across Asia
  • Also an actor and director, with films like The Green Hornet.

27. Faye Wong

• Lifespan: 1969–present
• Birthplace: Beijing, China
• Major Contributions:
  • A renowned singer and actress, widely considered one of the most influential Chinese pop artists
  • Known for her ethereal voice and successful career in both China and Hong Kong
  • Her music continues to inspire generations of fans.

28. Jacky Cheung

• Lifespan: 1961–present
• Birthplace: Hong Kong, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Known as one of the “Four Heavenly Kings” of Cantopop
  • A prolific singer with numerous hits and an acclaimed career in both music and acting
  • One of the most influential figures in Hong Kong’s music industry.

29. Andy Lau

• Lifespan: 1961–present
• Birthplace: Hong Kong, China
• Major Contributions:
  • One of the most successful and beloved actors and singers in Hong KongStarred in hit films like Infernal Affairs and House of Flying Daggers
  • Has maintained a long-standing career, being known for his versatility in both film and music.

30. Joan Chen

• Lifespan: 1961–present
• Birthplace: Shanghai, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Acclaimed actress, director, and producer, known for her roles in both Chinese and international cinema
  • Gained fame for her performances in The Last Emperor and Twin Peaks
  • An influential figure in bridging Chinese and Western cultures through film.

31. Xiaogang Feng

• Lifespan: 1958–present
• Birthplace: Xiangyin, Hunan, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Renowned filmmaker, known for his works that explore social issues in contemporary China
  • Famous for directing the critically acclaimed film Cello and the popular Aftershock
  • A key figure in Chinese cinema, blending commercial success with deep, cultural narratives.

32. Jolin Tsai

• Lifespan: 1980–present
• Birthplace: Taipei, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Pop singer, dancer, and actress, widely regarded as one of Taiwan’s biggest music stars
  • Known for her versatile music style, dynamic performances, and influence on pop culture in Asia
  • Iconic for her chart-topping hits and bold fashion choices, shaping the Taiwanese pop music scene.

33. Tang Wei

• Lifespan: 1979–present
• Birthplace: Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Renowned actress, known for her roles in Lust, Caution (2007) and Red Amnesia (2014)
  • Gained international acclaim for her nuanced performances and beauty
  • Considered one of the leading actresses of Chinese cinema, bridging both domestic and international film industries.

34. Dilraba Dilmurat

• Born: June 3, 1992, Ürümqi, Xinjiang, China
• Birthplace: Chinese (Uyghur descent)
• Major Contributions: Actress (Ashes of Love, Eternal Love of Dream, You Are My Glory), Model

35. Liu Yifei

• Lifespan: 1987–present
• Birthplace: Wuhan, Hubei, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Actress and singer, best known for her role in Disney’s Mulan (2020)
  • Gained popularity for her roles in Chinese fantasy films and television dramas
  • Known for her elegance and acting talent.

36. Yang Mi

• Lifespan: 1986–present
• Birthplace: Beijing, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Actress and singer, known for her roles in TV dramas such as Eternal Love and The Interpreter
  • A leading figure in Chinese entertainment, with a strong social media presence and endorsement deals
  • Considered one of the most popular and influential celebrities in China.

37. Yang Yang

• Lifespan: 1991–present
• Birthplace: Shanghai, China
• Major Contributions:
  • Actor, known for his roles in popular Chinese dramas like Love O2O and The King’s Avatar
  • Gained widespread fame for his youthful charm and strong fan following in China and internationally.

38. Jackson Wang

• Lifespan: 1994–present
• Birthplace: Hong Kong
• Major Contributions:
  • K-pop idol and rapper, a member of the boy group GOT7
  • Known for his solo music career and influence in both China

Entrepreneurs

China’s rise in business is unstoppable, with popular Chinese people driving technological innovation.

Tech giants and entrepreneurs from China lead in e-commerce, telecommunications, and social media, shaping the future of 21st-century business and technology.

 39. Jack Ma

• Lifespan: 1964–present
• Birthplace: Hangzhou, China
• Major Contributions: Founder of Alibaba, revolutionized online shopping and digital payments in China, symbol of Chinese entrepreneurship.

40. Li Ziqi

• Lifespan: 1990–present
• Birthplace: Mianyang, Sichuan, China
• Major Contributions: Influential content creator promotes traditional Chinese culture and rural life through viral YouTube videos.

Athletes

In the realm of sports, famous Chinese people have brought pride to the nation with outstanding performances in gymnastics, badminton, and table tennis. These athletes have consistently placed China at the top, becoming famous Chinese role models and inspirations for future generations.

41. Lin Dan

• Lifespan: 1983–present
• Birthplace: Longyan, Fujian, China
• Major Contributions: Greatest badminton player, two-time Olympic gold medalist, five-time World Champion.

42. Liu Xiang

• Lifespan: 1983–present
• Birthplace: Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
• Major Contributions: Olympic gold medalist in the 110m hurdles, national hero in China.

43. Li Na

• Lifespan: 1982–present
• Birthplace: Wuhan, Hubei, China
• Major Contributions: First Asian player to win a Grand Slam singles title, a trailblazer in tennis in China.

44. Zheng Qinwen

• Lifespan: 2002–present
• Birthplace: Shiyan, Hubei, China
• Major Contributions: Rising tennis star, gaining global recognition for her success at WTA events.

Poets, Writers and Artists

45. Du Fu

• Lifespan: 712–770
• Birthplace: Gongxian, China
• Major Contributions:
  • One of the most influential poets of the Tang Dynasty
  • Known for his detailed and compassionate works about the struggles of the common people and political issues
  • His poetry has remained an enduring part of Chinese literary heritage.

46. Li Bai

• Lifespan: 701–762
• Birthplace: Suiye, China (modern-day Kyrgyzstan)
• Major Contributions:
  • Renowned Tang Dynasty poet, often regarded as one of China’s greatest poets
  • Known for his work celebrating nature, freedom, and wine 3.His poetry is still highly regarded and widely read today.

47. Mo Yan

• Lifespan: 1955–present
• Birthplace: Gaomi, Shandong, China
• Major Contributions: Nobel Prize-winning author, known for works blending folk tales and magical realism.

48. Longping Yuan

• Lifespan: 1930–2021 ·
• Birthplace: Dezhou, Shandong, China ·
• Major Contributions: ·
  • Known as the “Father of Hybrid Rice” ·
  • Developed the first hybrid rice strains, revolutionizing global rice production and alleviating food shortages ·
  • His work significantly contributed to food security, particularly in Asia and Africa.

49. l.M Pei

• Lifespan: 1917–2019 ·
• Birthplace: Guangzhou, China ·
• Major Contributions:
  • Renowned architect known for his modernist and innovative designs
  • Famous works include the Louvre Pyramid in Paris, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library, and the Bank of China Tower in Hong Kong
  • Awarded the Pritzker Architecture Prize for his influential career in shaping contemporary architecture.

50. Yo-Yo Ma

• Born: October 7, 1955
• Birthplace: Paris, France (of Chinese descent)
• Profession: Cellist, Composer
• Famous Works:
  • The Silk Road Ensemble
  • The Cello Suites (Bach)
  • The Goat Rodeo Sessions

From celebs born from China to famous Chinese people in sports, business, and entertainment, the nation’s global impact is growing rapidly.

These Chinese celebrities are shaping the future, setting trends, and breaking boundaries.

If you’re inspired by the rich history of famous chinese people like Mulan and dream of exploring China’s cultural heritage firsthand, consider studying historical programs in China! Start your journey today with ApplyForChina!