Complete Travel Guide to Shima, China

Shima Longhai District is a District in Zhangzhou, in the south of Fujian province, China. Positioned at coordinates 24.44647°N, 117.81216°E, Shima occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Shima place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. Home to 952000 residents, Shima maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Shima represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Shima reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout China, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Fujian province, Shima contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines China’s regional character. The role of Shima in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Shima discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of China while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Shima

History Following the revocation of the sea ban (_haijin_) in the late Ming, Yuegang (within present-day Haicheng in Longhai) became a key port for China’s silver trade with Manila in the Spanish Philippines It was one of Fujian’s four main commercial ports.

It was formed from the merger of the former Longxi (Lungki) (龍溪縣; _Liông-khe koān_) and Haicheng (海澄縣; _Hái-têng koān_) counties on August 15, 1960 Mann (2011), _1493: Uncovering the New World Columbus Created_, Random House Digital, pp 123–163, ISBN 978-0-307-59672-7 2.

Brook, Timothy (1998), _The Confusions of Pleasure: Commerce and Culture in Ming China_, Berkeley: University of California Press, pp 120–121, ISBN 0-520-21091-3.

The historical trajectory of Shima demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Shima reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Shima remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

Geography Longhai located along the lower banks of the Jiulong River, with mountainous terrain in its western, southern, and northern portions, and the Xiamen Bay to its east. The mountainous terrain surrounding Shima creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. The city’s highest point is Mount Dajian (大尖山) in Chengxi [zh], which reaches 953. 6 metres (3,129 ft) in elevation. The city’s lowest point is Jiujiejiao (九节礁) on Wuyu Island (浯屿岛) in Gangwei, which lies 47 metres (154 ft) below sea level. Longhai has three major river basins. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Shima, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. #Climate Climate data for Longhai, elevation 32 m (105 ft), (1991–2020 normals, extremes 1981–2010) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 28. 4) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 18. 9) Daily mean °C (°F) 13. 5) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 11. 0) Record low °C (°F) 1. 3) Average precipitation mm (inches) 44. 31) Average precipitation days (≥ 0. 4 Average relative humidity (%) 73 76 77 77 79 81 76 78 75 68 70 70 75 Mean monthly sunshine hours 141. 3 Percentage possible sunshine 42 35 31 35 36 41 59 54 54 55 51 47 45 Source: China Meteorological Administration 1. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ _**d**_ Dong, Zhixun (2017-10-12). 地理环境 (in Chinese). Longhai City People’s Government. Archived from the original on 2021-01-10. Retrieved 2021-01-09. 中国气象数据网 – WeatherBk Data (in Simplified Chinese). China Meteorological Administration. Retrieved 23 June 2023. 中国气象数据网 (in Simplified Chinese). China Meteorological Administration. Retrieved 23 June 2023.

The topographic characteristics of Shima result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Shima region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Shima area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Shima has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Shima demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Shima create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

#Climate Climate data for Longhai, elevation 32 m (105 ft), (1991–2020 normals, extremes 1981–2010) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 28. 4) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 18. 9) Daily mean °C (°F) 13. 5) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 11. 0) Record low °C (°F) 1. 3) Average precipitation mm (inches) 44. Rainfall patterns in Shima determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 31) Average precipitation days (≥ 0. Rainfall patterns in Shima determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 4 Average relative humidity (%) 73 76 77 77 79 81 76 78 75 68 70 70 75 Mean monthly sunshine hours 141. 3 Percentage possible sunshine 42 35 31 35 36 41 59 54 54 55 51 47 45 Source: China Meteorological Administration 1. 中国气象数据网 – WeatherBk Data (in Simplified Chinese). China Meteorological Administration. Retrieved 23 June 2023. 中国气象数据网 (in Simplified Chinese). China Meteorological Administration. Retrieved 23 June 2023.

The climatic regime of Shima reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Shima create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Shima determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Shima create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Shima demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Shima include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Demographics As of 2016, the city has a population of 736,400, of which, 241,000 (32. The demographic composition of Shima reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 7%) live in urban areas. 55% of the population is reported as males, and 49. The demographic composition of Shima reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 05% of the population is under the age of 18, 25. The demographic composition of Shima reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 50% are from ages 18 to 35, 37. 70% are from ages 35–60, and 16. 75% are over 60 years in age. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ Cite error: The named reference `:1` was invoked but never defined (see the help page).

The cultural landscape of Shima represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Shima reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Shima continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Shima provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Shima demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Shima provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

Economy As of 2016, the city’s gross domestic product totaled ¥45. 768 billion, and the city’s economy grew 9. 3% from the previous year. The mean annual disposable income of the city’s urban residents totaled ¥31,621 that same year, and totaled ¥16,101 for rural residents. Companies with a presence in Longhai include Maxxis, China National Offshore Oil Corporation, King Long, Fujian Zishan Group, Haixin Group, and China Greenfresh. Longhai has a number of mineral deposits, and is home to 147 mining areas. Major minerals mined in Longhai include granite, tuff, peat, feldspar, and kaolin. Significant amounts of mineral water is also extracted in the city. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ Cite error: The named reference `:0` was invoked but never defined (see the help page). ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ Cite error: The named reference `:2` was invoked but never defined (see the help page).

The economic structure of Shima reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Shima often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Shima serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Shima demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Shima has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Shima focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transportation Zhangzhou Railway Station Longhai’s only railway station is Zhangzhou Railway Station. The station is located in It is located near Hongtang Village (洪塘村),[_citation needed_] in Yancuo [zh], but, as its name indicates, it is actually closer to Zhangzhou’s main urban area than to Longhai’s. [_citation needed_] It is the junction of two high-speed rail lines: the Longyan-Xiamen Railway (opened in June 2012) and the Xiamen-Shenzhen Railway (to open by 2013), which share their tracks from Zhangzhou to Xiamen. [_citation needed_] Railway development plans also include the construction of a 45-km-long branch line from Zhangzhou Railway Station eastward, across most of Longhai City to terminate at the Zhangzhou China Merchant’s Group Development Zone [zh] in Gangwei on the southwestern shore of Xiamen Harbor, opposite Xiamen Island (24°24′00″N 118°03′00″E / 24. [_citation needed_] The branch will be known as Gangwei Railway (港尾铁路), and will support trains running at speeds up to 120 km/h. Its opening is planned for 2013. The Zhangzhou Port tariff-free industrial export zone, is located in Gangwei. [_citation needed_] 1. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ Cite error: The named reference `:0` was invoked but never defined (see the help page). 厦深港尾铁路明年通车 漳州高铁增至280多公里 Archived 2016-03-29 at the Wayback Machine (Xiashen and Gangwei rail lines to open next year; Zhangzhou’s high-speed railway lines trackage to exceed 280 km), _Haixia Daobao_ (海峡导报), 2012-08-02,.

Transportation infrastructure serving Shima reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout China. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Shima.

Regional connectivity from Shima provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Planning Your Visit to Shima

Successful visits to Shima require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Shima often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Shima include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Shima extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.

Source: This article incorporates material from the Wikipedia article “Longhai, Zhangzhou”.