Abstract: Properties of oil and gas resource found in tar-rich coal present a novel avenue for enhancing domestic oil and gas supply. The characteristics of hydrocarbon generation kinetics are critical factors that influence the in-situ pyrolysis conversion potential and the temperature conditions associated with tar-rich coal. Nevertheless, the distinctions in hydrocarbon generation processes and characteristics between tar-rich coal and tar-containing coal, as well as the underlying causes of these differences, remain inadequately understood. The hydrocarbon generation kinetics, coal rock and quality characteristics, and geochemical characteristics were carried out for investigating the differences and origins in hydrocarbon generation characteristics between tar-rich coal and tar-containing coal of Yan’an Formation from Huanglong Jurassic coalfield in Ordos Basin. The findings reveal that both tar-rich coal and tar-containing coal are classified as type Ⅱ₂ kerogen and are generally characterized by low maturity. The elevated levels of vitrinite and liptodetrinite of tar-rich coal significantly enhance its hydrocarbon generation potential in comparison to tar-containing coal. The hydrocarbon generation activation energy (260-380 kJ/mol) of tar-rich coal is relatively low and concentrated, indicating a hydrocarbon generation process characterized by a low threshold and a short conversion cycle. In contrast, the hydrocarbon generation activation energy (330-470 kJ/mol) of tar-containing coal is higher and more dispersed, reflecting a hydrocarbon generation process with a high threshold and an extended conversion cycle. The hydrocarbon generation processes and characteristics of the tar-rich coal and tar-containing coal from Yan’an Formation are comprehensively influenced by factors such as coal rock and quality characteristics, paleo-sedimentary environments, parent material composition, and radioactive elements. The value and dispersion degree of activation energy for both tar-rich coal and tar-containing coal decrease with an increase in the content of vitrinite and liptodetrinite, enhanced reducibility within the sedimentary environment, a greater proportion of aquatic organisms in the composition of parent material and conifer resin in terrestrial organic matter. Conversely, the value and dispersion degree of activation energy increase with higher levels of inertinite content, water and clay mineral content, as well as elevated concentrations of radioactive elements such as uranium and thorium.