Remember that time in 2008? A massive fireworks explosion rocked Sanshui. Over 15000 cartons of fireworks went up in smoke. Literally. The US even felt the impact. Fireworks shortages hit the American market. That’s Sanshui for you. A place of vibrant industry and unexpected events.
Sanshui District a part of Foshan city in Guangdong province. It boasts a rich history. Evidence shows people lived here near Baini town some four thousand years ago. Sanshui County officially formed in 1526 during the Ming Dynasty. It’s seen changes through the years. Merged with Nanhai County. Revoked then restored. Finally becoming a county-level city in 1993. Then a district in 2002.
Sanshui has its own unique character. It’s known for the Samsui women. These women emigrated to Singapore and other places. They worked hard and contributed greatly. Sanshui’s geography also plays a significant role. It sits on a railway line between Guangzhou and Maoming. Major expressways run through here. Access to other cities is easy. This has impacted Sanshui’s economy. It’s not just fireworks. Sanshui produces food especially fruit for Guangdong. Jianlibao a once popular soft drink company thrived here. Its success however wasn’t long-lasting. Despite its location near major economic hubs Sanshui still struggles. Many earn just a few hundred yuan monthly.
The climate here is subtropical. Summers are hot and humid. Winters are mild and short. Rainfall is abundant. The district has a blend of urban and rural areas. It’s a place of contrasts. A mix of modern development and traditional life. A place that produces both fireworks and fruit. A place marked by a massive explosion and a long history. Sanshui is more than meets the eye. It’s a place of stories waiting to be told. A place I hope you remember.