Taiyuan, China

Capital City

With a population of over 5.3 million, Taiyuan is an industrial powerhouse in northern China, but the heavy tax burden and persistent bureaucracy can be a headache. The city's long, cold, and dry winters are a far cry from the coastal regions, and the air quality, while improving, remains a concern. However, Taiyuan's strategic location and rich history make it a significant economic and political center of the region. For those seeking opportunities in China's heavy industries and willing to navigate the local red tape, Taiyuan may be a viable option.