Shantou

Shantou is a prefecture-level city on the eastern coast of Guangdong, China. With a population of approximately 5.6 million, it is part of the Chaoshan region, which also includes the cities of Chaozhou and Jieyang. Shantou, a city significant in 19th-century Chinese history as one of the treaty ports established for Western trade and contact, was one of the original Special Economic Zones of the People's Republic of China established in the 1980s, but did not blossom in the manner that cities such as Shenzhen, Xiamen and Zhuhai did. However, it remains eastern Guangdong's economic centre, and is home to Shantou University, a member of the Project 211 group.

History

Shantou was a fishing village part of Tuojiang City, Jieyang County during the Song Dynasty. It came to be known as Shantou (lit. "sandy head") after the sandbar which the town was built upon. Shantou was a part of the historical Canton Province until 1911 when it was separated from Canton and became a part of Kwangtung Province. The historic quarter of Shantou features both Western and Chinese architecture.

Economy

Shantou's economy is medium by Guangdong standards. Manufacturing accounts for a large and increasing share of employment. Canning, garments, and plastics are among the key industries. Other sectors of note are its port and tourism industry.

Culture

Shantou people share the same culture with other Teochew people and speak the Teochew dialect. The distinctive culture is clearly observed in the widespread use of the Teochew dialect, cuisine, music, opera and dances. One of the notable aspects of Shantou cuisine is its seafood soups, which use the local area's abundant seafood resources.

Education

Shantou is home to Shantou University, a key comprehensive university under the "double first class initiative" program of China. It is the only institution of higher education in the Chaoshan area.

Transportation

Shantou is an important transportation hub within the province of Guangdong. It has a well-developed network of roads, a major port, and an airport, Shantou Waisha Airport, which offers flights to many major Chinese cities.