Eighty years before the first inhabitants settled down here. That’s how far back the story of Shilong Town goes. It is an industrial town found directly administered by Dongguan. Dongguan is a prefecture-level city in Guangdong province.
Shilong Town sits where the northern stem and southern branch of the Dongjiang River meet. This creates one river with three wharfs. Its location made Shilong a major hub. It became important for food and wood supply in southern China. This was from the late Ming dynasty to the early Qing dynasty.
The Kowloon-Canton Railway opened in 1910. This railway passed through Shilong. It strengthened Shilong’s status as a traffic and commercial center. The economy grew. Shilong became one of the Four Big Towns in Guangdong.
Let’s talk transport. Shilong has great railway and water transport. There are many buses available. These connect to surrounding cities. Getting around Shilong is easy. There are also express intercity buses to Guangzhou and Shenzhen.
In 2008, Shilong earned a special designation. It was named a renowned historical and cultural town in China. Shilong values its history. The town protects its ancient trees. One tree is over 300 years old. Sixteen trees are over 100 years old. The Town Government keeps records of each tree. This helps manage them well.
Shilong boasts 28 sites of historical and cultural significance. Five are key cultural relic protection units. The government supports Cantonese Opera. They set up a development fund. Folk ballad singers perform free shows every Saturday evening. You can find these shows in Yat-sen Park. Museums and exhibition centers serve as cultural hubs.
Shilong was listed as the Dragon Boat Champion Center in China in 2005. There are many cultural and artistic events here. You’ll find art shows. You’ll find evening parties of all kinds.
Let me tell you about a few notable people from Shilong. Zhang Yin Lin was a historian. He was born in 1905. Michelle Yim is a Hong Kong actress. She was born in 1955.
Shilong Town combines industry with culture. It values its history and natural environment. It’s a place where old traditions meet modern life. It’s a town with a rich past and a bright future.