Abstract: Hypotheses concerning the origins of modern Homo sapiens have been intensively debated, and two competing models, the “Assimilation” and “Multiregional Evolution” paradigms, have dominated current research and discussions. Based upon the hominin fossil record from China, Wu Xizhi proposed a “Continuity with Hybridization” model based upon the “Multiregional Evolution” paradigm to address Pleistocene human evolution in China. This model suggests modern humans in China are mainly evolved from local archaic hominins with genetic input from western Eurasia. In this paper, we review archaeological materials dating to Marine Isotope Stages (MIS) 5 to 3 and discuss their implications for understanding modern human origins in China. First, we briefly introduce the multiple lines of evidence which have been used to support northern and southern routes of modern human dispersals. Second, we evaluate lithic technological variability from MIS 5 to 3 in China and discuss its significance for modern human evolution and dispersals. Finally, we touch upon the ongoing challenges in research on the anatomically modern human diaspora using archaeological data from China. Archaeological evidence, especially lithic technology during MIS 5 and 3, demonstrates three points: 1) continuous evolution of simple core-flake systems in southern North China and South China may support the local derivation of modern humans; 2) the Initial Upper Paleolithic in northwest China may suggest the in-migration of modern human groups from Central Asia or Siberia during MIS 3; 3) a few lithic assemblages with organized technology in South China may imply that some MIS 5 modern human groups entered China from southern Asia. At least three sources may be responsible for the origins of modern humans in China, and interaction among various modern human groups may have also occurred. This scenario generally fits Wu’s “Continuity with Hybridization” model, but we also realize that the paleoanthropological and archaeological data from MIS 5 and 3 are still scarce, particularly with respect to a dearth of sites yielding both abundant fossil and cultural materials. The discoveries of additional well-dated sites, especially those bearing both hominin fossils and archaeological remains, are crucial for understanding modern human evolution in China. With such additional data we will be able to test current hypotheses for modern human origins on a more solid basis.

Key words: China; modern human dispersal; continuity with hybridization; Marine Isotope Stages 5-3; lithic technology