The first phase of "A Journey of Civilization Exchange and Mutual Learning around Bao'an" was officially launched on August 9th. Four international friends joined us to enjoy the vibrant and colorful life in Bao'an, Shenzhen.
Let's see where they went!
So futuristic bridge!
"This bridge looks so light and beautiful!" Italian tech professional, Leonardo, exclaimed as the "Sea Rainbow" cruise passed under the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link.
The cruise offers a different perspective for checking in at the Link. Guided by the Culture, Radio, Television, Tourism, and Sports Bureau in Bao'an District, this sightseeing route was created by Shenzhen Shipping Group and Shenzhen Airport Terminal. The departure and arrival points are both located at Shenzhen Airport Terminal, with a one-way duration of about 100 minutes. Visitors can take photos with backdrop boards or bridge-shaped ice cream. The cruise also features a range of activities, including traditional Chinese Hanfu performances, fun quizzes, and maritime blessings, making the trip more interesting.
"I was visiting relatives in Brisbane when the link opened to traffic, and I thought I'd come back to China to see it, and indeed it's spectacular!" said Tim from Australia.
As a core transportation project in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the link spans about 24 kilometers and has been labeled the "transportation backbone" of the area, shouldering the vital task of seamlessly connecting the urban centers on either side of the Pearl River Estuary. It cuts travel time between Zhongshan and Shenzhen from two hours to approximately 30 minutes.
Astounding development speed
"This is the first time I've learned about the history of Bao'an in such detail. Bao'an has changed a lot in the past ten years!" Piya, from India, said in fluent Chinese. After obtaining her master's degree from Shenzhen University, she has stayed in Shenzhen to work.
Introducing the ecological environment of Bao 'an
At the Bao'an District Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, visitors gained an in-depth understanding of Bao'an, which is the source of Shenzhen-Hong Kong culture and a pioneering land of reform and opening up. The first company using "Three-plus-one" trading-mix (custom manufacturing with materials, designs, or samples supplied, and compensation trade) in Shenzhen, as well as the first stock and labor museum in China, were all born here. Bao'an is a prominent industrial and economic hub with a substantial population and serves as the core engine in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
In front of a screen that reads "Total number exceeds 7,200, ranking first among national districts and counties for seven consecutive years," Luna, a German blogger, said excitedly that this achievement is really impressive, and Germany also places great emphasis on the manufacturing industry.
At the hall displaying high-tech products from Shenzhen companies
As an innovation highland established with advanced manufacturing, Bao'an has a high degree of alignment with Germany and even Europe in terms of industrial development and industrial structure. In recent years, Bao'an has drawn on the German "dual system" concept of vocational education, created a Sino-German (European) industrial demonstration park, and promoted deep cooperation between China and Germany in technology, projects, talent, market, and other fields.
Chill life at dusk
Tim, who is from Brisbane where there is also a Ferris wheel, couldn't help but marvel at the one in the OH Bay. "I think this one is much bigger, and it's like being in a space capsule."
Overlooking Bao’an on the Ferris wheel
The OH Bay was awarded the title of "4A National Tourist Attraction" in July of this year. Since its opening in 2019, it has received nearly 40 million visitors, often ranking at the top of the list of tourist destinations in the city during holidays.
From the moment Luna boarded the Ferris wheel, she started snapping photos from different angles. "Tomorrow marks China's Valentine's Day, and riding the Ferris wheel in the sunset is so romantic!" she said.
It is the best spot to admire the stunning scenery of the Greater Qianhai area. This is evidenced by offering a panoramic view of OH Bay, Qianhaishi Park, the riverside expressway, "Penguin Island," and the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link. In 2021, the Qianhai District was expanded to include the Bao'an Central District, Dachan Bay District, Bao'an Airport, and its surrounding areas, as well as the Convention and Exhibition New City and Maritime New City districts. From then on, "Two-thirds of Qianhai is in Bao'an, and one-fifth of Bao'an is Qianhai."
Reporter | Wang Yue, Zhang Xinyue
Photos | He Jun, Zhang Xinyue
Video | Liu Daiqi
Editor丨Nina, James
