Remember this scene. The Dawang Ancient Temple stands surrounded by skyscrapers in Dachong. This unlikely juxtaposition tells a story of Shenzhen’s rapid transformation. It also tells of the enduring spirit of tradition.
The Dawang Ancient Temple is more than just a building. It is a symbol of cultural resilience. It is a testament to the importance of honoring the past amidst progress.
Ancestral temples traditionally honor deified ancestors. They also honor progenitors of surname lineages. Chinese families use them for collective rituals and festivals. They also use them for weddings and funerals. These temples dot Shenzhen, often in urban villages.
Many temples decayed due to neglect during Shenzhen’s economic boom. But there’s a growing movement to protect these ancestral temples. Many run-down temples are getting facelifts. They stand proudly among modern skyscrapers.
Interestingly, Shenzhen’s name has humble origins. In 1410, people called paddy field drains “zhen” or “chong”. “Shenzhen” means “deep drains”. The area was crisscrossed with rivers and streams. Shenzhen became a township in the Qing Dynasty.
Dachong Village is part of the largest urban village transformation project. It is happening in Shenzhen. China Resources Co. undertook the transformation of the 70-hectare Dachong Village in 2007.
The development includes a central business district. It also includes a gated community and a 100-story office tower. A five-star hotel and a shopping mall are also part of it. This urban renewal project replaces almost all existing buildings.
However, the Dawang Ancient Temple remains. It is one of two temples that were rebuilt. This effort preserves their historical significance. The Dawang Temple is where villagers worship Matsu. She is a goddess protecting fishermen and sailors.
The Dawang Ancient Temple sits at one corner of the office block. A pedestrian tunnel goes under the temple. A sunken plaza sits between the high-rise office tower and the temple. The sunken plaza acts as a “veil” between the office tower and the historic temple.
Grand steps flow down from the office tower to the sunken plaza. They form an amphitheater. Vegetation covers the sloped sides. Views from the steps focus on mist from a fountain. They also focus on a water wall. The temple sits above the water wall at ground level.
People overlooking the sunken plaza from the office entry see the temple. It gleams behind the water wall and mist fountain. Pilgrims at the temple are separated from office workers. This is done by a significant grade change.
The temple stands as a symbol of culture. It is an homage to the past. It adds cultural nuance to this recognizable landmark.
Consider this engraved city map on the water wall within the sunken plaza. It records a particular time in history. It shows the village as an overcrowded slum. But it also shows bucolic features of the rural village.
The Dawang Ancient Temple represents more than just a building. It embodies the spirit of a community. It is a testament to Shenzhen’s dynamic blend of old and new.