Zhuhai was one of China’s original Special Economic Zones, that were established in 1980 as part of Deng Xiaoping’s economic reforms to open up the country to foreign investment and global trade.
Rafa explores Zhuhai, a futuristic Chinese city rising from an 1980s Special Economic Zone, featuring stunning architecture, empty malls, and a light show.
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Rafa Goes Around! explores Zhuhai, China's futuristic city rising from an 1980s Special Economic Zone, showing its stunning skyline and the massive transformation of Hengqin Island. From the Sheraton's balcony view of Macau to Zahia Hadid's Jinwan Art Center and a spectacular light show, Rafa uncovers a metropolis booming with $670M investments, busy tunnels, and eerie empty malls. This is a deep dive into a city secretly growing into a global hub, blending modern architecture, history, and a sunset that screams possibility.
Zhuhai was one of China’s original Special Economic Zones, that were established in 1980 as part of Deng Xiaoping’s economic reforms to open up the country to foreign investment and global trade. #Zhuhai #Guangdong #China #chinatravel #macau
China Secret Future City: Zhuhai Modern Metropolis Tour
Embark on a journey to Zhuhai, a city born from China's ambitious economic reforms. Discover its transformation from a Special Economic Zone into a modern metropolis, showcasing the nation's rapid development and integration with the global economy. Explore its unique blend of tradition and innovation.
Attractions in this video: Hengqin Island, Shizimen Central Business District, Jinwan Civic Art Center, Hong Kong Zhuhai Macau Bridge, Gongbei Port, Sheraton Hotel Zhuhai
More about the current video:(Published on 2025-04-12)
<p>Rafa Goes Around! kicks off with a jaw-dropping view of Zhuhai's brand-new skyline, calling it a city China is secretly building into a futuristic marvel. He sets the scene from the Sheraton Hotel, which offers a killer balcony view of Zhuhai's bay and neighboring Macau, highlighting how these two cities are super interconnected via the Gongbei port—one of the busiest land crossings globally. The 2018 Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, an $18 billion, 55km sea-crossing behemoth, has made it easier for Hong Kong and Macau residents to flock to Zhuhai for its cheaper vibe.</p><p><p>Next, Rafa dives into the Huafa development, a state-owned enterprise behind a massive complex of skyscrapers, shopping malls, and a grand theater. But here's the twist—the mall feels eerily empty, a common issue in China's rapid urbanization boom where retail space often outpaces demand. He then heads to Shizimen Central Business District, a project transforming Zhuhai's commercial landscape, and marvels at the city's explosive growth: population doubling from 800,000 in 2000 to 1.93 million by 2024, and GDP skyrocketing 13-fold to $63 billion. Rafa's mind is blown by the bridges, tunnels, and highways, calling Zhuhai a
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
Q: How much did the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge cost?
A: About $18 billion US, and it spans 55 kilometres as the world's largest sea crossing bridge.
Q: Is Zhuhai empty or crowded?
A: On weekdays, many shopping malls feel empty due to rapid development, but weekends are busier.
Q: What's special about the Jinwan Art Center?
A: It's designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, inspired by migratory bird patterns, and hosts a light and water show at night.
