Nestled in Shenzhen's Longgang District, the 300-year-old Gankeng Hakka Town has become a cultural crossroads as it hosts events tied to the 15th National Games of China. Recognized as a "National Most Beautiful Town," this provincial-level cultural tourism destination now pulses with athletic excitement while preserving its Hakka roots.
The National Games, currently underway through late November 2025, have transformed ancient courtyards into temporary venues for community sports activities. Visitors can watch traditional Hakka architecture serve as backdrops for modern athletic demonstrations, creating a striking contrast between heritage preservation and contemporary vitality.
"This year's Games allow us to share our cultural legacy with a national audience while celebrating sportsmanship," a local cultural officer told LIVE Guangdong. Evening light shows now project both Hakka folk patterns and dynamic sports imagery onto the town's signature tulou buildings.
With visitor numbers up 40% compared to 2024 figures, the township has implemented timed entry systems to protect its UNESCO-listed Hakka walled villages. Tourism authorities recommend weekday visits for optimal access to both cultural sites and Games-related events.
