More than 40 years ago, the groundbreaking event in Shekou marked the beginning of reform and opening up. The statement 'Time is money, efficiency is life' here is astonishing! This slogan has become a strong voice of the times to break free from ideological constraints and inspire people to devote themselves to the great cause of reform and opening up. In order to implement the spirit of the Second National Congress of the Communist Party of China and the multiple letters from General Secretary Xi Jinping to international students studying in China, and to enable them to have a close understanding of China's reform, opening up, and development, feel China's development philosophy and great achievements, and understand the real China, the "Perceive China - Perceive the Century old China Merchants Group, Explore the New Future of Shipping" social practice activity, hosted by the China Scholarship Council, organized by Dalian Maritime University (DMU), and strongly supported by China Merchants Port, was held in Shenzhen from September 1st to 4th. 14 DMU international students from 9 countries participated in the activity.
一、Explore the process of reform and opening up, feel the spirit of the special zone
The Lianhua Mountain Park, located at the northern end of the central area of Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, is not only a place for Shenzhen citizens to relax and unwind, but also an iconic symbol of the city. Here, you can read the “story of spring” and see the footsteps of reform. On the main peak square of Lianhua Mountain stands a bronze statue of Comrade Deng Xiaoping, the chief designer of the reform and opening-up policy. His forward step symbolizes that Shenzhen must always take big steps forward during the reform and opening-up. In the Shenzhen Museum at the foot of Lianhua Mountain, "the Pearl River at the Beginning of the Spring Tide - the 40th Anniversary Exhibition of Guangdong's Reform and Opening up" is going on in a vivid and three-dimensional way. Through photos, physical objects, videos and other materials, Shenzhen, as China's first special economic zone, has comprehensively demonstrated its magnificent history and brilliant achievements after 40 years of reform and opening up. Here, with Shenzhen as the epitome, the overseas students saw the wisdom and boldness of China's reform and opening up, felt the ever-changing changes in China, and experienced the reform spirit of Chinese people's courage to explore and innovate.
The History Museum of China Merchants Group, located in the microwave mountain of Shekou, Nanshan District, records the process of China's reform and opening up, and condenses the important process of the Chinese people's pursuit of industrial development, national liberation, and national prosperity since modern times. Through precious historical relics and vivid video frames, international students followed the 150 year journey of China Merchants Group and learned about its development process spanning three centuries. They experienced the important mission of Shekou, as the birthplace of China's reform and opening up, to bravely stand at the forefront of reform and strive to be the pioneer.
二、Visit modern urban architecture and experience folk culture
At present, Ping An International Financial Center, the tallest building in Shenzhen and the fifth tallest building in the world, is not only a landmark of architecture and commerce in the new era of Shenzhen, but also represents the forefront of China's urban quality life and culture. Taking the elevator with a speed of up to 10m/s from the 1st floor to the Free Sky observation deck on the 116th floor, international students seem to travel through time and space, admiring the "Chinese speed"! Here, everyone can overlook the urban landscape from 360 degrees and deeply imprint the modern Shenzhen and charming China in their hearts on the cloud!
At the world's largest real-life miniature scenic spot - Jinxiu Zhonghua Folk Village, students were transported into the 5000 year history of China and experienced the unique style of major scenic spots and historical sites in China firsthand. The large-scale Chinese ethnic costume show "Oriental Nishang" has left everyone amazed. From the colorful Miao costumes to the solemn and elegant Tibetan robes, nearly 350 sets of ethnic costumes are displayed in a flowing picture under the backdrop of lighting and stage design, vividly showcasing the clothing culture of various ethnic groups in China.
三、Experience high-quality development achievements and embrace the future of world transportation
The Mawan Smart Port under China Merchants Group is the first 5G green smart port in China that has been upgraded and transformed from a traditional dock. It is also the first 5G green and low-carbon smart port in the Guangdong Hong Kong Macao Greater Bay Area. Here, students can gain a deeper understanding of the digital and intelligent construction achievements of the port by watching introductory videos and visiting the intelligent operation center. They all marveled at the high efficiency and intelligence of the development of modern port construction in Shenzhen, as well as the spirit of striving to be the first in the world.
The Hong Kong Zhuhai Macao Bridge, hailed as one of the "New Seven Wonders of the World", is the largest cross sea project in the world to date. Students took a cruise to admire the scenery of Hong Kong, Zhuhai, and Macao, and experienced the great achievements of building a strong transportation country. They were not only shocked by the spectacular miracle of the Hong Kong Zhuhai Macao Bridge, but also admired the creativity of the Chinese people and the wisdom of "concentrating our strength to do great things"!
The four-day social practice tour was compact and busy. In Shenzhen, the window of China's reform and opening up, students deeply felt the modern development achievements of ancient China, the enterprising spirit of the Chinese people, and China's broad mindedness to share with the world. Shenzhen is like a great Peng bird with dreams as its wings, intending to spread its wings and soar high, pursuing innovation and leading the way. We believe that with what they have seen and heard in Shenzhen, students will not only be deeply inspired, but also pass on the spirit of Shenzhen and the stories of China to more people; We believe that this trip will inject a steady stream of motivation and inspiration into students' future study life in China, inspiring them to constantly strive and innovate, broaden their thinking and horizons, and look to the future of global transportation, playing a positive role in promoting sustainable development of world transportation and creating more wonderful chapters together!
学生感想
1. 巴基斯坦籍博士生SAEED ANWAR（赛艺德）
During our four days trip to Shenzhen, we were truly amazed by what we saw. The city’s advanced infrastructure was on full display, with technology seamlessly integrated into daily life. The smart port was a sight to behold, demonstrating Shenzhen's innovative spirit. Their famous slogan “Time is money, efficiency is life” was evident everywhere as the city moves forward at a rapid pace. In just over 40 years, Shenzhen's development has surprised everyone with its astonishing speed. This trip was not just a journey but an eye - opening experience that showed us the future of urban development.
2. 坦桑尼亚籍硕士生NINDORERA GABRIEL MANASE（周瑜）
My trip to Shenzhen was buzzing with an unforgettable experience. It enlightens my eyes and opens up my mind. In just over 40 years, Shenzhen has transformed from a small fishing village into a modern city, as evidenced by the skyscrapers (such as Ping An International Finance Centre) and other beautiful infrastructures that have built. The city, which has modernized without abandoning its traditional culture, has successfully integrated it with a modern lifestyle. This includes a blend of traditional and international cuisine, clothing, and lifestyle.
The people have a welcoming attitude; the environment is evergreen, and the public transport system is effective. Additionally, thanks to a bicycle-sharing scheme, navigating through the city is easy. Museums well documented the development history of Shenzhen. The slogan “Time is Money, Efficiency is Life” summarized the urgency and focused on productivity that defined the Shekou approach to economic development. China Merchants Group history, Mawan Port (Smart Port) and Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge.
Each attraction offered a unique perspective on Chinese culture and innovation, leaving me with a deeper appreciation of the country’s diversity. As part of the great bay, Shenzhen is not just a city of technology; it is a place where history, culture, and modernity coexist beautifully. I have remained with wonderful memories about the City and here is another slogan learned “You can’t enter the door if you don’t have a spirit of reform.”
3. 卢旺达籍硕士生UMURANGAMIRWA AIMEE（冉爱丽）
Visiting these places in China was an amazing experience! The Ping An International Finance Centre impressed me with its stunning modern architecture and city views. At the China Folk Culture Village, I enjoyed learning about traditional Chinese culture and crafts. The China Merchants Group History Museum offered insights into China’s economic development, while the Shenzhen Reform and Opening-up Exhibition Hall highlighted the city’s rapid growth. The Mawan Smart Port showcased cutting-edge technology in logistics. Lianhuashan Park provided a peaceful escape with beautiful scenery, and the Greater Bay Area Cruise was breathtaking, especially as we crossed the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. Overall, it was so interesting trip to me and my colleagues!
4. 肯尼亚籍硕士生FONDO ESTHER HARUSI（方一蕊）
Shenzhen is one of the most beautiful cities in China, a place that everyone would love to visit. When I first arrived, I was immediately struck by how clean the city was. The people were friendly, hardworking, and always following the rules, especially on the roads.
Some of the breathtaking places I visited was the Window of the World, a famous attraction in Shenzhen. But what truly amazed me was the Ping An Finance Centre and the Splendid China Folk Village. The Ping An Finance Centre a stunning skyscraper standing 599 meters tall, making it the second tallest building in China. Its sleek, glass design shines in the sunlight and lights up the city skyline at night, it made me feel like I was on top of the world.
The Splendid China Folk Village offered a completely different experience. This park celebrates China’s rich history and diverse cultures. Walking through the park felt like stepping back in time, with famous landmarks like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. I explored traditional villages that brought to life the customs and traditions of China’s many ethnic groups. There were performances, crafts, and even opportunities to participate in ancient ceremonies. The colors and music, created a memorable experience that will stay with me forever.
Shenzhen is also home to incredible museums that showcase both its technological achievements and cultural heritage. The city’s museums offer a fascinating look at history, art, and the future, blending tradition with modernity.
Finally, the Shekou Cruise Port is a beautiful spot to visit, especially in the evening. Standing by the waterfront, I watched ships and ferries sail across the South China Sea. The peaceful sound of the waves and the stunning views made it a perfect place to relax.
Shenzhen is a city that perfectly combines the excitement of modern life with the deep roots of tradition, making it a truly unforgettable destination.
