Visited Cities
Beijing, the capital of China, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and modern development. As a political and economic hub, Beijing houses many of the country’s most important government institutions and multinational corporations. The city is famous for iconic landmarks such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Temple of Heaven, blending ancient traditions with contemporary urban life.
Modern Aspects:
- Technological Hub: Zhongguancun is known as China’s “Silicon Valley,” fostering innovation in tech.
- Urban Development: Modern skyscrapers like the CCTV Headquarters and the futuristic architecture of the National Stadium (Bird’s Nest).
- Public Transportation: Extensive subway system and high-speed rail connections.
Cultural Aspects:
- Historic Sites: The Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Temple of Heaven.
- Peking Opera: A traditional art form, famous for its elaborate costumes and makeup.
- Hutong Culture: Traditional narrow alleys and courtyard homes, representing old Beijing life.
Places that SUBP Members Visited:
- Forbidden City
- Great Wall
- Soong Ching Ling Science & Culture Center for Young People
- CUSEF(China–United States Exchange Foundation)
- Qianmen Street and Dazhalan Subdistrict
- US Embassy
Fuzhou is the capital of Fujian Province in southeastern China, known for its rich cultural history and coastal charm. As an important economic and transportation hub, the city has a thriving economy based on manufacturing, shipping, and trade. Fuzhou is also celebrated for its traditional architecture, scenic parks, and vibrant tea culture, offering a blend of historical and modern attractions.
Modern Aspects:
- Economic Development: A growing tech industry, with an emphasis on electronics, textiles, and machinery.
- Urban Growth: Rapid expansion of urban infrastructure, modern shopping malls, and high-rise buildings.
- Transportation: Fuzhou has a well-developed metro system and connections to major cities via high-speed rail.
Cultural Aspects:
- Fuzhou Cuisine: Known for light flavors, seafood, and dishes like Fuzhou fish balls and ban mian.
- Traditional Architecture: Historic buildings like the Three Lanes and Seven Alleys.
- Min Opera: A local form of Chinese opera, rich in regional traditions and history.
Places that SUBP Members Visited:
- Kuliang
- Yantai Mountain
- Zuohai Park
- Pingtan Island
- Wuyi Square
- Fuzhou Strait Art Center
- Fuzhou Grand Theatre
- The Three Lanes and Seven Alleys
Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province in eastern China, is renowned for its picturesque scenery and historical significance. The city is famous for West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its traditional tea culture, making it a popular destination for tourists and scholars alike. As a major technology and innovation hub, Hangzhou also hosts the headquarters of several leading Chinese companies, including Alibaba.
Modern Aspects:
- Tech Hub: Hangzhou is home to Alibaba and a growing tech ecosystem.
- Economic Growth: A key city in China’s e-commerce and digital innovation industries.
- Infrastructure: Modern transportation, including a subway system and high-speed rail links to major cities.
Cultural Aspects:
- West Lake: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its natural beauty and historical significance.
- Tea Culture: Famous for producing Longjing (Dragon Well) tea.
- Silk Industry: Historically known as a major silk production center in China.
Places that SUBP Members Visited:
- Remote X27 Theme Park
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Medical University
Shanghai, China’s largest city, is a bustling global financial center known for its impressive skyline and vibrant cultural scene. Located on the Yangtze River Delta, the city is a major hub for international trade, finance, and technology. Shanghai blends historical landmarks, such as the Bund and Yuyuan Garden, with modern architecture like the Shanghai Tower, creating a dynamic urban landscape.
Modern Aspects:
- Financial Hub: Shanghai is one of the world’s leading financial centers and China’s economic powerhouse.
- Skyline: Iconic modern buildings like the Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl Tower dominate the skyline.
- Global Connectivity: Extensive public transportation, including the world’s fastest commercial Maglev train.
Cultural Aspects:
- The Bund: A historic waterfront with colonial-era architecture.
- Shanghainese Cuisine: Famous for dishes like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings).
- Art and Fashion: A growing center for contemporary art and international fashion.
Places that SUBP Members Visited:
- Shanghai Municipal People’s Congress
- Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center
- Starbucks Bakery Workshop
- Chongmingdongtan National Nature Reserve
- Dongping National Forest Park
- Shanghai Wanhe Agricultural Technology Development Co.
- The Bund
Shenzhen, a major city in Guangdong Province, China, is renowned for its rapid economic growth and status as a technology and innovation hub. Established as a Special Economic Zone in 1980, it has transformed from a small fishing village into a global center for electronics and high-tech industries. Shenzhen is also known for its modern skyline, vibrant cultural scene, and significant role in China’s economic development.
Modern Aspects:
- Tech Hub: Shenzhen is the heart of China’s tech industry, home to giants like Huawei and Tencent.
- Rapid Urbanization: A former fishing village transformed into a bustling metropolis with cutting-edge architecture.
- Economic Special Zone: It was one of China’s first special economic zones, driving innovation and trade.
Cultural Aspects:
- Contemporary Art Scene: Shenzhen hosts numerous art exhibitions and design fairs, like the Shenzhen Biennale.
- Migrants and Diversity: A melting pot of cultures due to its large migrant population.
- Cantonese Cuisine: Influenced by Guangdong traditions, famous for dim sum and seafood.
Places that SUBP Members Visited:
- Shenzhen Civil Center
- Qianhai Youth Innovation and Entrepreurship Point
- Shenzhen BYD
- Nanshan Energy Ecological Park
- Shenzhen Newspaper Industry
- OCT-LOFT Creative Culture Park
- Shenzhen Exhibition Hall of the Great Tides Surge Along the Pearl River
Xiamen, a picturesque city in Fujian Province, China, is renowned for its scenic coastal beauty and vibrant cultural heritage. Known for its charming Gulangyu Island and well-preserved colonial architecture, Xiamen attracts tourists with its pleasant climate and historical landmarks. The city also serves as an important port and economic center, blending traditional charm with modern development.
Modern Aspects:
- Economic Zone: Xiamen is a key port city and part of China’s special economic zones, attracting foreign investment and trade.
- Tourism: It is known for its clean environment, modern infrastructure, and coastal attractions.
- Transportation: The city has a well-developed public transport system, including high-speed rail.
Cultural Aspects:
- Gulangyu Island: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for colonial architecture and music culture.
- Minnan Culture: Strong roots in Fujian’s Minnan dialect and customs.
- Xiamen Cuisine: Famous for seafood dishes and snacks like peanut soup.
Places that SUBP Members Visited:
- Yuandang Lake
- Xiamen’s Ecological Reception Hall
- Kulangsu Island
- Nanjing Tulou
- Zengcuo Aun Night Market
- Jimei Xiamen Academic Village
