Online Asian History Courses
Discover the rich and diverse histories of Asia with City Lit’s online Asian history courses. From ancient empires and religious traditions to modern revolutions and cultural transformations, our expert-led courses explore the people, ideas and events that have shaped Asia’s past and continue to influence the present.
Learn about key regions and topics including the histories of China, Japan, India, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Explore subjects such as empire-building, trade routes like the Silk Road, cultural exchanges, colonialism, nationalism and globalisation. With flexible online learning, live interactive sessions and tutor support, you’ll engage deeply with this fascinating and complex region.
Our courses are open to all, whether you’re new to the subject or looking to expand your understanding. Join a community of learners and explore the histories that connect Asia to the wider world.
Explore our online Asian history courses today and gain fresh insight into the stories and legacies of one of the world’s most dynamic regions.
6 courses available
- Chinese History Friday Lates: The Opium Wars
What is the significance of opium in Chinese History why were wars fought over it in the 1800's? Join Dr Chen to discover the history of opium in China in this Friday Late session.
Online
Fri 2 Oct 2026Qiuyang ChenFull fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £12.00 - Chinese History Friday Late: Women in China
Trace the history of women in China from imperial times to the present, exploring how gender roles were defined, lived, and contested. It highlights both dominant ideals and diverse experiences, showing how women’s lives were shaped by social norms, cultural traditions, and historical change.
Online
Fri 22 Jan 2027Qiuyang ChenFull fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £12.00 
Gujarat: 4,000 Years of Trade, Faith and MigrationDiscover Gujarat-where ancient trade routes and modern industry converge.
Online
Mon 25 Jan 2027Ketan VariaFull fee £89.00 Senior fee £89.00 Concession £58.00- A short history of the Indian subcontinentThe India subcontinent is unique in its heritage and history. Join us for a tour of of the period from Pre-Aryans (c5000 BCE) to the start of the Mughal empire.
Online
Wed 27 Jan 2027Ketan VariaFull fee £239.00 Senior fee £239.00 Concession £155.00 - Chinese History Friday Late: Reading Qing China through the Dream of the Red Chamber
Using Dream of the Red Chamber, one of China’s greatest novels, this introductory session explores everyday life, family structures, and cultural values in Qing dynasty China.
Online
Fri 19 Feb 2027Qiuyang ChenFull fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £12.00 - Discovering Late Imperial China: Ming to Qing 1500-1800To understand China of our present means understanding China of the past. Explore the histories and legacies of the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
Online
Tue 25 May 2027Qiuyang ChenFull fee £129.00 Senior fee £129.00 Concession £84.00
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