Xiangyang is a prefecture-level city located in the northwestern region of Hubei province, China. It currently serves as the second-largest city in that specific area by population. The city was formerly known as Xiangfan from 1950 until 2010 and was formed by the agglomeration of two previously separate cities: Fancheng and Xiangyang.
The Han River flows through the center of the city, dividing it into northern and southern sections. The historic core of old Xiangyang is situated south of the river and preserves one of the oldest still-intact city walls in China. In contrast, Fancheng is located to the north of the river. Both original cities held significant roles throughout ancient and pre-modern Chinese history.
As part of China's efforts to urbanize and develop its interior provinces, Xiangyang has become a primary target for both government and private investment. According to the 2020 census, the municipality contained approximately 5,260,951 people, with 2,319,640 of those inhabitants residing within the three urban districts that make up the city's built-up area.