Abstract: Regarding the Paleolithic lithic technology of China, one opinion holds that Mode 1 technology persists for most of the Pleistocene. Using new archaeological findings and research achievements, this paper presents a brief summary of lithic technologies existing in China from the beginning of the Middle Pleistocene to ca. 40,000 years ago. Results show that during this time period lithic technologies in China exhibit clear diversity and complexity. In particular, since the Late Pleistocene, various technological complexes occur. These include: an Acheulean techno-complex characterized by large cutting tools, such as handaxes, picks and cleavers; a small flake tool techno-complex that features discrete tool types, refined retouch on blanks, and an increase in discoidal core flaking; a Mousterian techno-complex represented by Levallois cores and points; and a Mousterian techno-complex characterized by scrapers with Quina retouch. Different techno-complexes likely indicate that human groups possessed different cultural traditions. This provides a new perspective to discuss human behavioural adaptation to various environments and inter-regional dispersals and contact among different population groups.

Key words: Middle Pleistocene; Early and middle phases of Late Pleistocene; Early and Middle Paleolithic; Lithic techno-complex