Immovable cultural relics under state protection refer to major cultural and historic sites designated by the State Council to be listed as heritage protection units for their historical, cultural, artistic and scientific value at the national level. China now boasts a total of 2,348 registered immovable cultural relics under state protection, including the famed Great Wall, Forbidden City and the Mausoleum of Emperor Qinshihuang.

Apart from those listed under state protection, China also registers major historical and cultural sites for protection at the provincial and city or county levels. Cities, towns, neighborhoods and villages with an unusual wealth of cultural relics that contain high historical value or revolutionary significance are verified and named as famous cities, towns, neighborhoods and villages of important historical and cultural value.

China implements the principle of keeping the immovable cultural relics in their original state in their use and their users carry full responsibility for the protection of the structures and the cultural relics attached to them. Furthermore, users must see to it that the immovable cultural relics do not suffer any damage and are not rebuilt or dismantled in any way. There shall be no construction of additional structures on the sites.