Objective To systematically evaluate the experience / cognitions of cancer patients on ' meaning in life ' in China，aiming to provide a foundation for better formulating interventions for cancer patients ' meaning in life and dying well. Methods The Chinese and English databases such as PubMed，The Cochrane Library，Web of science， PsycINFO， Scopus， CNKI， Wanfang Database，VIP，Taiwan Academic Literature Database，University of Hong Kong Academic Database and China Biomedical Literature Database were searched. Qualitative studies focusing on cancer patients ' experience / cognitions regarding the ' meaning of life ' were included, with the search limited to articles published up to February 28, 2023. The quality of the literature was assessed using the Australian Evidence-based Health Care Center, and a convergent synthesis method was employed to summarize and integrate the results. Results After literature screening and quality assessment，a total of 9 articles were included, yielding 40 research results， which were categorized into 7 new themes and summarized into 3 integrated results. Integrated result 1：Reassessing the value of life. Integrated result 2: Enhances sentiments of appreciation and gratitude. Integrated result 3: seeking mental tranquility and serenity. Conclusion The findings suggested diverse experience among cancer patients in China on the meaning of life. Attention should not be directed towards the patients’ own quality of life but also towards the influences of traditional culture, family, society, religion, and the evolving attitudes toward death. Healthcare professionals should prioritize and implement various measures to meet the existential needs of patients, assisting them in seeking meaning in life and ultimately achieving a good death.