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2007-11-25

Shenzen-Windows of the World  

Introduction

Shenzhen is a sub-provincial city of Guangdong province in southern China. Although this city is famous for its extreme proximity with the boundary of Hong Kong, it is at least 25km away from the core urban area of Hong Kong. Shenzhen is a centre of foreign investment and since the late 1970s has been one of the fastest growing cities in the world. It is also the busiest port in China after Shanghai. In the past two decades, outsiders have invested more than $30 billion in Shenzhen for building factories and forming joint ventures.

History

The one-time fishing village of Shenzhen, singled out by late Chinese paramount leader Deng Xiaoping, was the first of the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) in China. It was originally established in 1979 due to its proximity to Hong Kong, then a prosperous British colony. The SEZ was created to be an experimental ground of capitalism in "socialism with Chinese characteristics".

The location was chosen to attract industrial investments from Hong Kong since the two places are nearby each other and share the same culture. The concept proved to be a great success, propelling the further opening up of China and continuous economic reform. Shenzhen eventually became one of the largest cities in the Pearl River Delta region, which has become one of the economic powerhouses of China as well as the largest manufacturing base in the world.

Shenzhen, formerly known as 'Bao'an County ', was promoted to prefecture level, directly governed by Guangdong province, in November 1979. In May 1980, Shenzhen was formally nominated as a "special economic zone", the first one of its kind in China. It was given the right of provincial-level economic administration in November 1988.

Tourist attraction of Shenzen

Shenzhen Window of the World is a fantastic replica park situated at the Overseas Chinese Town. Here you can see vivid replicas of the world's wonders, historical heritages and famous scenic sites. The entire masterpiece is built at ratios of 1:1, 1:5 or 1:15.
Within one day, you can visit many reproductions of famous sites from different countries. For example you can find the Tajmahal of India, Mahamuni Pagoda of Rangoon and the Angkor Wat of Cambodia here. European architectural splendors, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Ancient Athens, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Tower of London will carry you back to the cradle of classical European culture.

When you tour the miniature Roman Colosseum, you might notice a cruel and bloody scene. Enjoy the picturesque scenery as you take a gondola along the canals of Venice. Mysterious Africa is always full of life and vigor. Here, the Pyramids and the Sphinx are quietly waiting for your visit. After traveling through typical African hamlets, you come to the Oceania. Sydney Opera House, which boasts a unique style, is a landmark not only of Australia but also the whole Oceania. Looking from a distance, it looks like a luminous pearl on the vast expanse of blue sea water. The rumbles of Niagara Falls and the Grand Canyon lead you to the America, a young continent. These two natural wonders are awe-inspiring. Moving on to modern civilization, in the replica of Manhattan you will see rows of towering skyscrapers. No wonder they say the rhythm of life speeds up here.

Visiting during a festival time is another way to experience this replica park. Annually the park holds the Indian Cultural Week and the Cherry Festival. During the Cherry Festival, wandering in the cherry garden of Japan and taking a cup of tea will refresh you. Window of the World runs many programs during holiday periods too. In the summer holiday, the International Beer Festival is a big tourist attraction. Probably, the Pop Music Festival is the favorite of young people. This is held on China's National Day. In December, Santa Claus welcomes New Year's approach. Following this the World Dance and Singing Gala is held during the Spring Festival. Taking part in the entertainment activities complements your travel plan.

There are a number of adventure trips for you to choose from. For example, test your courage by navigating the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. In the Archery Field, tourists may follow the ways of North American Indians and learn to hunt prey in the lush woods. Even more exciting is to traverse the primitive tropical forest in a cable car. Skiing in a subtropical city might sound strange, but the Indoor Alpine Ski Run in Shenzhen Window of the World offers you four thousand square meters (about 6,200,012 square feet) of indoor piste to ski.


Shenzhen Window of the World has a lot more to offer. You will have a good day in this miniature world.

Admission Fee: CNY120 (~Rs 750)
Opening Hours: 09:00 to 22:30
RecommendedTime for a Visit: Two hours
Mini Bus Route: 423,209,223,204,301,101