Shenzhen Then and Now in 5 Images

Take a look at the massive transformation in 40 years

Shenzhen Night ViewShenzhen Foundation for International Exchange and Cooperation

The youthful, dynamic, and innovative megacity...

Today, Shenzhen is known as a fast growing, forward-looking and youthful metropolis in the world. It's developed from a small fishing village into a megacity of over 12 million population, attracting global corporations and people who call it home.  

Shenzhen Nantou Ancient TownShenzhen Foundation for International Exchange and Cooperation

...with a history of 7,000 years

Shenzhen might be one of the world's youngest metropolis, however it has a much longer history than its rapid development known in the four decades. Evidence of antiquity shows its rich past. The Nantou town used to be the gatekeeper of the pearl river and Guangzhou. 

Shenzhen Futian District in 1998, 2010 & 2020Shenzhen Foundation for International Exchange and Cooperation

Massive and rapid transformation...

Shenzhen has seen one of the most rapid urban expansion in human history: transforming from a fishing village into the engine of China's economic development and technological innovation. This contrasted photo shows the Futian district from marshy fields into a business center.

Nanshan District 1990-2009Shenzhen Foundation for International Exchange and Cooperation

...in only 40 years

Unlike the business center Futian, Nanshan district is more diverse with multiple attractions: from the ancient Nantou town to contemporary art centers, from the skyscrapers of the High-tech zone to the breezy shoreline and the wooded parks, as well as the famous theme parks...

Binhai Boulevard 1985-2012 by Chen ZonghaoShenzhen Foundation for International Exchange and Cooperation

Known as China's Silicon Valley, Shenzhen is a symbol of innovation and development. After 40 years of growth, the city is continuing its transformational tale, it's not only about factories and work, its inclusive, free-spirited and dynamic vibe is attracting more talents.

Credits: All media
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