Shenjing Ancient Village Micro Reconstruction Project

Challenges and Objectives

Shenjing Village, located in the Huangpu district of Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China, boasts a rich history spanning over 700 years. In 2017, the Guangzhou government, aligned with the national policy of rural revitalization, unveiled plans to revitalise more than 90 ancient villages, including Shenjing Village. One of the primary challenges faced in the development of Shenjing Village is the difficulty in attracting young people to settle in the area. Rural regions often suffer from a perception of poverty and backwardness among the public. As a result, a significant portion of the local youth has migrated to urban areas for employment opportunities, while many non-indigenous residents have been drawn to the village due to its affordable housing options.

Initiated in 2017 and is now still in progress, Shenjing Ancient Village Micro Reconstruction Project aims to transform Shenjing Village into a scientific and educational cultural base, as well as a peaceful island living area. It seeks to prioritise the functions of cultural creativity and leisure experience, creating a space where people can live, work, and relax. A key objective is the creation of a historical trail, focusing on the preservation and revitalisation of historical architectural heritage. The trail will also serve as a platform to showcase and pass on the rich historical stories and folk culture of Shenjing.

Collaboration Partners and Roles

The collaboration for project is driven by the government's clear direction for the development of the village. The Urban Renewal Bureau of Guangzhou Municipality proposed the direction of "Slow Island Living" for rural revitalisation, and then selected Shenjing Village for micro-renovation. The bureau also provides resources for village infrastructure. Professors from universities led their teams and external organisations into the village for communication and organisation. Universities and external organisations involved in the project include Sun Yat-sen University, South China Agricultural University, LOHAS Lab, and the Center for Advancement of Rural-Urban Sustainability.

Indigenous villagers share their village culture and farming experiences, while new settlers bring in new knowledge and technology. Shenjing Village Committee is responsible for communicating with the government, organising village events, and making decisions for the development of the village.

Revitalisation Activities

Sun Yat-sen University negotiates with various interest groups (villagers, street offices, etc.) regarding the project intention, land ownership, etc. LOHAS Lab contributes to the farming development of the village by conducting workshops to promote smallholder farming to young people and recycling village food waste for composting. Center For Advancement of Rural-Urban Sustainability provides comprehensive services and guidance to improve the production end of the business (farming). It develops and maintains sales channels for agricultural products on behalf of villagers’ cooperative organisations. It also co-ordinates the retail channels (micro shops, etc.) for green farming social enterprises. South China Agricultural University, focusing on the history and culture of the village, issues monthly magazine documenting the villagers’ farming and cooking processes and techniques, as well as the stories of the Ling clan’s ancestors.

Revitalisation Outcome

The integration of new settlers into the community's communication network has improved connectivity and engagement among residents. The village culture has been documented and preserved through the production of a magazine. The construction of a neighbouring metro station has improved transportation infrastructure and provided better accessibility for residents. The objectives of the government programme, including the Anlai City Plan, guided tours, and the renovation of the lotus pond, have been achieved. However, The project has not yet been completed and improvements are still being made slowly. The agricultural environment has not seen significant improvements, but public areas in the villages have become cleaner, and many have undergone renovations, enhancing their overall appearance and functionality.

This is the abridged version of a case prepared by AIRI Fellow Liang Anqi Angel. For further information, please email The University of Hong Kong’s Centre for Civil Society and Governance at ruralsd@hku.hk.