This table describes the contents of the file: "feat_class_draft_oct2001.zip" which can be accessed from the CHGIS working papers downloads page.
The ZIP archive contains three files:
1) gaz_feat_type_0529
2) class_types
3) gaz_sources
The files were produced as a draft definition for feature types in the China Historical GIS.
Feature Types are important elements in constructing historical gazetteers and geographical information databases. They should be distinguished from the "placename" or "given name" component of toponyms, although they might need to be included in the complete toponym in order for it to make sense.
Chinese language toponyms have special characteristics in this regard, for example, any single syllable placename must be combined with the feature type, as in Ming Xian (Ming County). See a fuller description of this issue in the paper: "Toponyms and Feature Classifications for the China Historical GIS" (PDF)
The gaz_feat_types file contains the list of feature types. Note that XIAN is listed twice, once for the modern meaning of "county" and again for the meaning of "district" (used in earlier Dynasties, such as the Han). The CHGIS_FEAT_TYPE is the code number for each type and will not be changed. The class_type is a classification derived from NIMA'S GNS feature designations, which are listed in the "class_types" file.
The sources for the feature types are listed in the "gaz_sources" file.
See also "Spatial Elements for Mountain Gazetteers" by Thomas Hahn, which have been included in their entirety in this table.
Description of main table, "gaz_feat_type_0529"
| Field Name | Description |
| chgis_feat_type | the code number for each type (which will remain constant) |
| class_type | classification derived from NIMA'S GNS feature designations, which are listed in the "class_types" file. |
| py_type_name | Name of the feature type, using pinyin romanization |
| hz_type | Name of feature type, using BIG5 encoded Chinese Characters |
| eng_feat_name | Proposed standard translation to English for each feature name |
| source | sources for the feature types as listed in the "gaz_sources" file |
Sources: