These four characters are simply the first syllables of each city's name, combined to create a short, memorable, and highly significant acronym.
“北上广深” is a cultural touchstone for understanding modern China. It embodies the aspirations and anxieties of a generation. For many young Chinese people, success is defined by the ability to make it in one of these four cities. They are the centers of power, finance, trade, and technology, respectively. Comparison to Western Concepts: While one might compare “北上广深” to listing major US cities like “NYC, LA, and Chicago,” the Chinese term carries a much heavier and more unified cultural weight. A better analogy is a concept like “Silicon Valley.” “Silicon Valley” isn't just a geographical area; it represents a specific culture of tech innovation, venture capital, high-risk/high-reward careers, and a certain lifestyle. Similarly, “北上广深” is a brand that signifies a specific life path: one of intense ambition, grueling work culture (see 内卷 - nèijuǎn), and the pursuit of the “Chinese Dream.” It's a goal, a status symbol, and a battlefield all in one. This term reflects a shift in societal values towards individualism and meritocratic competition, yet the journey is often discussed with a sense of collective struggle. The decision to move to, or leave, “北上广深” is a major life event, heavily discussed among families and peers.
This term is ubiquitous in daily life, from news headlines and economic reports to social media and casual conversations.