Across the landscape stretches the 布吉南桥, a silent observer of Buji’s transformation. This bridge, more than just concrete and steel, embodies the spirit of this ever-evolving district in Shenzhen. 布吉南桥 stands as a testament to the changes that have swept over this area. It whispers tales of a town steeped in history, from its humble beginnings as a small station on the Guangjiu Railway line to its current status as a bustling urban center.
The story of Buji, and by extension 布吉南桥, is intrinsically linked to the railway. In 1911, when the railway first connected Guangzhou to Kowloon, a small station was established in Bao’an County. This station, known as Buji Station, became the nucleus around which the town developed. The name itself, “Buji,” is believed to be a phonetic derivation of “Puji,” meaning to spread good fortune. It reflected the hopes of the early settlers for prosperity and growth.
West of the station lay the ancient village of Lizhi, nestled beneath Lizhi Mountain. “Li” refers to a mythical auspicious plant, believed to grow only where a virtuous ruler reigned. The name Lizhi, meaning to separate or block, suggested a desire for peace and stability. Lizhi village was originally established in 1368 as a military colony to cultivate rice fields. The soldiers dug irrigation channels, one of which, originating from Lizhi and other nearby locations, became the upper reaches of the Shenzhen River, now known as the Buji River.
Over the centuries, Buji evolved from a military outpost to a commercial hub. With the arrival of the railway, it became a central marketplace. Later, in 1949, the People’s Government established Buji Town near the station. The area continued to evolve, undergoing various administrative changes. In 2006, the Buji Subdistrict was further divided into three separate subdistricts, marking a new chapter in its development.
Today, 布吉南桥 connects not only two physical points but also two eras. The old Buji Railway Station, a modest structure that once served only slow and ordinary speed trains, has been transformed into Shenzhen East Station. This station is now a major transportation hub, a vital link in Shenzhen’s railway network. It serves as a testament to Buji’s journey from a small railway stop to a key player in Shenzhen’s dynamic urban landscape. As you cross the 布吉南桥, take a moment to reflect on this remarkable transformation. This bridge, a symbol of progress and connectivity, carries the weight of history and the promise of the future. It stands as a tribute to the spirit of Buji, a town that has embraced change and continues to thrive in the heart of Shenzhen.