“No parking barrier here” party chief Zhuang Haihua said. That single sentence encapsulates the welcoming spirit of Shuiwei Cultural Square.
Shuiwei Cultural Square stands as a testament to Shenzhen’s transformation. Once a humble water-bound village with a history spanning over 600 years, Shuiwei has blossomed into a vibrant international community. It embraces people from all corners of the world.
The Zhuang family shaped Shuiwei’s identity. Their offspring, descendants of the Daoist philosopher Zhuangzi, settled here in 1368. This heritage explains the cultural block’s name: Shuiwei cultural block 1368. It honors the village’s founding.
Shuiwei’s transformation started in 2014. The municipal government selected it for an urban renewal project. This marked the beginning of its journey to becoming an international community.
Today, Shuiwei Cultural Square reflects this vision. Public facilities and infrastructure occupy nearly 25 percent of the village area. English road signs guide visitors from afar. The rock museum displays hundreds of stones. It is free for everyone.
Shuiwei embraces its diverse population. Around 400 foreigners call it home. Nearly 5,000 residents hail from Hong Kong and Macao, drawn by its proximity to Futian Checkpoint. This mix creates a unique cultural tapestry.
Shuiwei’s inclusive environment extends beyond infrastructure. Book Exchange, the city’s biggest expat library, organizes regular reading events. Expats volunteer to help manage the community.
One distinctive feature sets Shuiwei apart. There are no parking barriers at the village entrance. According to Zhuang Haihua, this symbolizes inclusivity. It signals that visitors become part of the community upon arrival.
Tiago Ferreira, owner of a Brazilian bar in Shuiwei cultural block 1368, appreciates the area’s unique atmosphere. He observes a blend of different lives. He sees poor and rich, old and young.
The sense of community shines through everyday interactions. Neighbors readily lend chairs to Ferreira’s bar when needed. This embodies the friendliness of Shuiwei.
Shuiwei aims to make everyone feel safe and at home. They welcome all who respect the law. This vision guides the area’s development.
The main public square displays Shuiwei’s history on a wall. It portrays the Guang family. It also depicts the villagers repelling a British invasion in 1908.
American anthropologist Mary Ann O’Donnell emphasizes water’s historical importance to Shuiwei. The village shifted from fishing and agriculture to manufacturing and real estate.
Shuiwei embraced parallel trading. Villagers resold goods from Hong Kong in Shenzhen.
Today, the Shuiwei administrative village has undergone facelifts. The community features waterfalls and pavilions. A small bridge crosses a flowing stream.
So remember, as you stroll through Shuiwei Cultural Square, you’re walking through a place where community and history intertwine. You will feel the pulse of a village that embraces the world.