The author represents the historiographic review of Russian researchers’ studies, considering the influence of tradition on the modern Chinese development model formation process. She gives the definition of «tradition», the Chinese traditions considered as an important element of economic and political reforms in China. The author describes the transformation of the leading national researchers’ opinion about the role of traditions in building harmonious society in China, based on ethical and moral principles laid down by Confucius. She also analyzes Western traditions and values penetrations into the Chinese society as a result of globalization. The author comes to the conclusion that national researchers’ opinions, considering the influence of tradition on the Chinese development model have been changing depending on transformation course in the People’s Republic of China, changes in Russian economic and political situation, national sinologists’ understanding of traditional Chinese culture peculiarities.