Damaling

Have you ever wondered what “Shenzhen speed” truly means? Here at Damaling, amidst the lush greenery and rising peaks, we can glimpse its essence. Damaling, a natural peak nestled within Shenzhen’s vibrant landscape, offers a unique perspective on this city’s extraordinary transformation. In 1979, Shenzhen was a modest border town of around 30,000 people. It served as a customs stop between Hong Kong and mainland China. Then, it was designated as China’s first Special Economic Zone. This marked the beginning of an unprecedented period of growth and development. Damaling witnessed this transformation firsthand. The city exploded with foreign investment, technology, and managerial expertise. New businesses sprouted, roads expanded, and infrastructure rapidly improved. People flocked to Shenzhen from all over China seeking opportunities and a better life. This rapid development, visible from the heights of Damaling, became known as “Shenzhen speed”. As Shenzhen boomed, the surrounding areas also prospered. The agricultural regions around Damaling saw an increase in the production of poultry, livestock, and vegetables, supporting the city’s expanding population. The influx of people and resources also led to the establishment of new educational institutions, including Shenzhen University in 1983. Shenzhen’s success story, mirrored in the rise of peaks like Damaling, inspired the creation of more Special Economic Zones across China. Shenzhen became a symbol of economic reform and liberalization. It served as a testing ground for new policies. From Damaling, one can appreciate not just the natural beauty of Shenzhen but also the remarkable achievements of its people. They transformed a small border town into a thriving metropolis in just a few decades.