Far away from Shenzhen’s modern skyscrapers, let’s explore a place where ancient history whispers from the earth: Wulongchuzhen. Shenzhen’s story stretches back 7,000 years. Primitive humans once lived in Xiantouling near modern-day Mirs Bay. They were Shenzhen’s earliest known inhabitants.
These ancient people were skilled artisans. They crafted exquisite pottery. A textured urn unearthed in Xiantouling showcases their precision. The unglazed porcelain is of exceptional quality. Its smooth surface and intricate design served as refined table decoration.
Consider the grooved stone tools they left behind. What were they used for? Some believe they ground away calluses. Others think they imprinted patterns on pottery. Another theory suggests they were stone bats for making bark cloth.
Archaeological digs at Wubeiling reveal much about Shenzhen’s past. Ninety-four tombs from the Shang Dynasty were discovered here. This is the largest collection of Shang Dynasty tombs found in the Lingnan region. The density of these tombs suggests Shenzhen was already populous during the Shang Dynasty.
The people of this area were often at war. History books say that the Yue people enjoyed war. During the Shang Dynasty, cups with spouts were used. These cups allowed people to drink water without spilling. Even then, technology played a role in daily life in Shenzhen.
During the Han Dynasty, Shenzhen residents used multiplication tables. A brick engraved with a nine by nine multiplication table proves that mathematics was developed here over 1,800 years ago. Social unrest during the Wei, Jin, and Northern and Southern dynasties pushed people from the Central Plains south. This migration spurred rapid development in southern crafts.
Ceramics became a focal point. The chicken head jug became a popular style during the Eastern Jin and Southern dynasties. Small, black, shiny cups were used for tea during the Tang Dynasty. These cups were crafted with great skill.
Shenzhen’s location by the ocean shaped its economy. Oyster farming, salt production, and pearl harvesting became crucial. The salt industry around Shenzhen flourished. During the Song Dynasty, five salt fields were established. The Diefu Salt Farm alone produced 15,000 dan of salt annually around 900 tons.
Oyster production has deep roots. Jinkang oysters from Shajing were well-known during the Song Dynasty. Shajing oysters have been cultivated since the Ming and Qing dynasties.
During the Ming and Qing dynasties, cities were built to defend against pirates. Nantou was strategically located at the intersection of two waterways. It became Guangdong’s coastal defense stronghold. The city of Nantou was built in 1394. Dapeng Fortress was built over 600 years. It was repeatedly attacked by Japanese pirates. The royal court continually reinforced it. Historical records state that Dapeng was the best of all coastal fortresses.
Castle-style compounds were built by the Hakka people during the Qing Dynasty. These compounds served both defensive and residential functions. They reflect the traditional square courtyard style of the Central Plains Han people.
The Dawan Former Residence is one of the largest Hakka compounds. The Hakka people enjoyed living together. They grew old together in these communal dwellings. Shenzhen has transformed from ancient settlements to a modern metropolis. Yet, its historical roots remain. Wulongchuzhen reminds us of the long and rich history that lies beneath our feet.