Gankeng Ancient Town in Shenzhen

Introduction of Gankeng Ancient Town

Gankeng Ancient Town, located in Jihua Street, Longgang District, Shenzhen, is a Hakka village with a history of over 300 years. It is recognized as one of "Shenzhen's Top Ten Hakka Villages." Covering an area of 180,000 square meters, the town integrates Hakka residences, folk customs, architecture, traditional art, cuisine, and rural scenery, making it one of the best-preserved Hakka cultural sites in Shenzhen. This ancient town not only serves as an important window into Shenzhen’s indigenous culture but also offers an ideal place to experience Hakka traditions and immerse in its historical richness.

History and Culture

Gankeng Ancient Town originated during the Ming and Qing dynasties, stemming from the fourth major migration of the Hakka people. Over 350 years ago, Hakka settlers from Meizhou, Guangdong, such as Xie Wenming and Zuo Meifa, established the village, leaving behind a rich cultural legacy. The town has preserved numerous traditional Hakka buildings, such as watchtowers, fortresses, arcades, and stilt houses, which, along with century-old Hakka row houses, form a unique cultural landscape.

Main Attractions

1. Nianxiang Building: A 120-year-old Minnan-style building with exquisite wood carvings, showcasing dragon and  phoenix motifs, representing superb woodcarving art.

2. Zhuangyuan Mansion: The residence of a scholar from Wuyuan, Jiangxi, dating back over 300 years during the    Qing Dynasty's Yongzheng era. It is one of the most culturally significant buildings in the town.

3. Phoenix Valley: Composed of four ancient Hui-style buildings, this area displays various traditional artifacts such as pottery, jade, and metal wares, serving as the core  space for cultural activities.

4. Gankeng Fortress: Built in 1919, this fortress symbolizes the Hakka people's resistance against external      threats. It is now a cultural heritage site in Longgang District, showcasing the town's wartime history.

5. Gankeng Museum: This museum presents Hakka folk culture, with themes like "Gankeng Under the      Mountain" and "Cool Hat Families," making it an excellent place to learn about Hakka history and culture.

Unique Experiences

• Hakka Cuisine: Try traditional Hakka dishes such as stuffed tofu, braised pork with preserved vegetables,      and Hakka Lei Cha (pounded tea).

• Cultural IP Experiences: The town features cultural projects centered around the "Little Cool Hat" IP, combining technologies like VR and AI to create unique cultural experiences.

• Handicraft Experiences: Participate in traditional crafts like Hakka embroidery and bamboo weaving to      experience the charm of Hakka culture.

• Nighttime Light Show: The town's lights at night create a charming atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for      photography.