Shanwei, known as Swabue in Cantonese, is a prefecture-level city in eastern Guangdong province, People's Republic of China. It is located on the coast of the South China Sea and is part of the economic region that includes the Pearl River Delta. With its unique geographic location, Shanwei harbours beautiful beaches and a coastline that is popular among tourists seeking seaside vacations. The city covers a total area of approximately 5,271 square kilometers and consists of several districts and counties such as Chengqu, Lufeng city, Haifeng County, and Luhe County. It is sandwiched between two major cities, Shantou to the northeast and Huizhou to the southwest, and its population is over 3 million, based on the latest available census data. As a result of its location, it experiences a subtropical monsoon climate with mild and relatively dry winters, and hot, humid summers. It is also prone to typhoons due to its coastal position. Geographically, it borders Jieyang to the north, Heyuan to the west, Huizhou to the southwest, the South China Sea to the south, and includes some islands in the South China Sea. Historically, Shanwei has been considered a relatively remote area of Guangdong province. However, in recent years, it has undergone significant economic development and urbanization, partly due to China's broader push for the development of the country's eastern coastal areas. The city has a diverse economy with main industries that include oceanography, fishing, and agriculture, as well as manufacturing industries producing garments, electronic goods, and processed food. Moreover, the completion of the Shenshan Expressway (Shenzhen-Shantou Expressway) has greatly improved transportation and access to Shanwei, encouraging increased trade and tourism. Culturally, Shanwei is a melting pot of southern Chinese cultures, with influences from different linguistic groups including speakers of Hakka, Teochew, and Cantonese, as well as the standard Han culture. The city's Hakka and Teochew heritage are particularly well-represented in its local cuisine, traditional festivals, and folk arts. Festivals such as the Chinese New Year, the Dragon Boat Festival, and the Mid-Autumn Festival are widely celebrated in Shanwei with traditional fervor. Demographically, Shanwei has a predominantly Han Chinese population, but also has minority groups such as the She and Yao ethnic groups. The city's population structure reflects China's broader demographic trends, including urbanization and the challenges of an aging population. Education levels have been on the rise, and the city has been making efforts to improve its educational infrastructure alongside its economic development. In conclusion, Shanwei is an evolving city that combines traditional southern Chinese cultures with modern economic development. Despite its history as a relatively remote area, it is becoming increasingly important to the provincial economy due to its strategic location and government investment in regional development. As such, Shanwei is an interesting case study of urbanization, economic change, and cultural preservation in the rapidly developing context of modern China.