Ugh, Shenzhen just keeps getting more disappointing! 😩 Anyone else feel this?
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As a native of Shenzhen, I have watched it with my own eyes transforming from a small area into the bustling international metropolis it is today. Just a few decades ago, this land was predominantly farmland and fishing villages! And now, it's thriving more than ever.
However, to be honest, in recent years, Shenzhen has become increasingly "busy"—or rather, to put it negatively, a bit chaotic, and air quality has sometimes taken a hit as well. This unexpected transformation is happening in my impressionable hometown that I once thought was so great!
Previously, whenever I came back to Shenzhen after a trip to other cities in China, I always felt at home: clean, orderly, and comfortable. But now? Sometimes, I feel that some of the other developing cities (we call them second-tier cities: not as huge as Beijing or Shanghai but still quite advanced) are even clearer and more refreshing than Shenzhen is right now.
If you come to visit Shenzhen, there are several phenomena worth noting, just for your reference (a little local's lament and tips, if you will):
- Electric scooters and motorbike taxis everywhere (módì):
"Motorbike taxi" (módì) refers to motorcycle-based taxis. In the streets of Shenzhen, you’ll see an abundance of electric bicycles and motorcycles, which, while faster, may occasionally ignore traffic rules, racing out suddenly. Some motorcycles can attract passengers, being "motorcycle taxis."
Be careful: "Motorbike taxis" often lack operational permits, thereby raising serious concerns around the riders' safety. Even though they look convenient, it is better to stick to legal cabs or use ride-hailing applications for a safer travel. While walking or biking, be especially alert to the movements around these electric vehicles.
- Street hawkers all over the place ("baitan")
"Street hawkers" (baitan) refer to vendors lining the roadside. Throughout the city, especially in the evenings, one can encounter many street stalls selling delicacies and goods. This definitely lends the city a lively atmosphere, yet it often causes congestion and could also affect public hygiene.
Tip: Experiencing local snacks is quite worthwhile, but purchase with caution, observing whether the food and environment meet basic standards of freshness and cleanness. Moreover, take care while walking due to the presence of many stalls; avoid getting pushed into the road by the crowd.
#WhatHasShenzhenBecome? #TheChaosOfMotorbikeTaxisInShenzhen #StreetHawkersCultureInShenzhen #TooManyElectricScootersInShenzhen
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Don't lose hope! Shenzhen is cracking down hard on issues like illegal motorcycle taxis and street vendors, and they're also working on ways to manage rent and improve employment. City development takes time; it'll eventually return to a state of orderly prosperity.
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How much do they pay you for posting this?
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E-bikes themselves aren't the issue, and a total ban isn't realistic. But could they at least fix up the bike lanes?
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Believe it or not, even if they build those bike lanes, it won't make a difference. You'll still see hordes of e-bikes taking over the sidewalks.
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They've already started the cleanup! I've lived in Shenzhen for a long time and have a deep affection for this city. Let's just give it some time, shall we?
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How much per post?
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Things will get better with a bit of time. I'm already seeing officers patrolling the streets and alleys more often to manage the situation.
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History repeats itself. Shenzhen used to have a problem with motorcycle gangs, and now it's these rogue e-bike riders.
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Those motorcycle gangs used to snatch things indiscriminately; it was terrifying.
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Everyone should save and share this. Let the world see what Shenzhen is really like right now.
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Escape Shenzhen.
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Say no to illegal motorcycle taxis and street vendors! It starts with me! Don't give them any room to operate! Clean up Shenzhen!
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This is the 'vibrant, everyday human touch' that a character like Lu Zhishen would have wanted.
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I feel the same way. Before the pandemic, every time I came back to Shenzhen, I thought it was great living here. Now, I just want to get out.
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Lu Zhishen's masterpiece.