This study takes Chinese literature collected from database such as China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) between 2000 and 2025 as samples. Using CiteSpace,it systematically review the evolutionary trajectory and cuttingedge trends of heritage language research among Chinese diasporas in domestic Chinese academia. A comprehensive analysis is conducted from the dimension of publication volume,academic collaboration networks, keyword co-occurrence clusters,and keyword bursts.Results show that Chinese heritage language research has evolved through three stages: theoretical introduction, empirical expansion, and focused refinement. A “single-core radiation” structure centered on Jinan University and three major author clusters have emerged, forming a fourdimensional framework: theoretical foundation, family language planning, regional practice, and cultural identity. Research frontiers are shifting from conceptual definition to inheritance effectiveness and mechanisms, increasingly integrated with international Chinese language education.The field is transitioning from quantitative expansion to quality improvement and from academic exploration to strategic application. This study identifies gaps and future directions, providing empirical evidence and theoretical support for optimizing collaboration networks, promoting heritage language transmission among overseas Chinese communities, and strengthening disciplinary construction. It also offers insights for building a global Chinese language ecosystem.