Xingang

Seven thousand years ago, the ancestors of Xingang thrived in the area now known as Mirs Bay. They were skilled craftspeople, creating intricate pottery. Xingang, nestled within the bustling metropolis of Shenzhen, boasts a history far richer than its modern facade suggests. Xingang itself, known locally as 新港街道, traces its roots back to ancient Shenzhen. Remember, Shenzhen’s history is deeply intertwined with the sea. Ancient inhabitants of the Xingang area, like their counterparts across Shenzhen, were adept at oyster farming, salt production, and pearl harvesting. These industries formed the backbone of their coastal existence. During the Song Dynasty, salt production in Shenzhen, including the Xingang region, reached its peak. Five salt fields flourished, with the Diefu Salt Farm alone producing a staggering 900 tons annually. The maritime prowess of the people of Xingang and Shenzhen played a crucial role in the region’s development as a significant coastal hub. Xingang, as part of Shenzhen, witnessed the construction of defensive fortresses like Nantou and Dapeng. These served as bulwarks against piracy during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Nantou, strategically positioned at the confluence of waterways, became a crucial coastal defense stronghold. The Hakka people, known for their distinctive castle-style compounds, also have a long history in the greater Shenzhen area, adding to the rich cultural tapestry that influences Xingang today. Their communal lifestyle and impressive architectural feats, such as the Dawan Former Residence in Longgang, are a testament to their enduring heritage. Xingang, as an integral part of modern Shenzhen, carries this legacy forward, blending ancient traditions with the dynamism of a global tech hub.