Country | China |
Population | 5502031 |
Area | 2,248.39 km2 (868.11 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+8 (China Standard) |
Coordinates | 23.35489, 116.67876 |
Highest elevation | 51 m (167 ft) |
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City Description
Shantou, located on the eastern coast of Guangdong Province, China, is a dynamic prefecture-level city with a rich history and significant economic clout. As of the 2020 census, Shantou has a population of approximately 5.5 million within an administrative area of 2,248.39 square kilometers. However, its built-up area, including the conurbated regions of Rongcheng, Jiedong, Jiexi, Puning, and all of Chaozhou, houses over 12.5 million people, making it the fifth largest urban area in mainland China.
Historically, Shantou was a small fishing village known as Xialing during the Yuan dynasty and later as Shashanping. It grew in prominence as one of China’s treaty ports established for Western trade in the 19th century. In the 1980s, Shantou was designated as one of China’s original Special Economic Zones (SEZ), a move that spurred rapid development, although it did not grow as significantly as other SEZs like Shenzhen and Xiamen.
Geographically, Shantou is bordered by the South China Sea to the east, the Hanjiang River Delta to the south, Chaozhou to the north, and Jieyang to the west. The city enjoys a humid subtropical climate with an average annual temperature of 21.5°C and receives between 1,300 to 1,800 mm of rainfall annually, making it a pleasant destination year-round.
Culturally, Shantou is a melting pot with a unique blend of traditional and modern influences. It is renowned for its Chaoshan cuisine, a subset of Cantonese cuisine that emphasizes fresh, light flavors, often featuring seafood. The local Gongfu tea culture is also a significant part of the city’s social life. Shantou is known for its vibrant festivals, Chao opera, and traditional crafts, reflecting its rich cultural heritage.
Economically, Shantou is a vital hub for various industries, including garment manufacturing, toy production, and high-tech innovation. The city’s GDP was approximately CN¥293 billion (US$45.4 billion) with a per capita GDP of CN¥53,106 (US$8,232) as of recent data. Shantou’s economy is bolstered by significant foreign investment, particularly from overseas Chinese, contributing to its robust growth. The city is home to numerous foreign-invested enterprises and benefits from strong ties with the global Chinese diaspora.
Shantou’s infrastructure is well-developed, featuring an extensive transportation network that includes the Shantou Waisha Airport and three high-speed railway stations. This connectivity facilitates both domestic and international travel, enhancing its status as a major economic and cultural hub in southern China.
Tourist attractions in Shantou are plentiful, with highlights including the picturesque Nan’ao Island, the historic Chen Cihong’s Mansion, and numerous parks and scenic spots. The city’s vibrant nightlife, characterized by numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues, adds to its appeal as a destination for both residents and visitors.
Overall, Shantou is a city of contrasts and opportunities, seamlessly blending its historical heritage with modern advancements, making it a fascinating place to explore and invest in.
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