RESUMEN
Aim: Review of the new research on medium- and large-sized rivers in China and its impact to develop more rational management strategies for medium- and large-sized rivers.Methodology: Papers on rivers-related research in China published over the past 15 years (2004–2018) were summarised through statistical analyses. The main topics, data sources and contributions were also summarised, and representative papers were presented to illustrate milestones and contributions. Results: The management strategies of medium- and large-sized rivers shifted remarkably from traditional agricultural utilisation of floods and water resources to ecological protection. Water resources and pollution, conservancy projects and flooding and droughts were the four most focused research areas. Interpretation: Chinese economy significantly contributed to the change in river management strategies over the last two decades.