Take a look at proper China

Name: Ivan Roberts UK
Address: Anshan, Liaoning
Telephone: 07857548189

Anshan, Liaoning province

The steel heart of China

My adopted home city of Anshan is a city of contrasts, where the industrial and cultural coexist harmoniously. Its rich history, thriving steel industry, and commitment to modernisation and sustainability make it a unique and dynamic place. As Anshan continues to evolve, it remains a vital part of China's economic landscape and a symbol of the country's industrial prowess.

Anshan, located in the central part of Liaoning province in northeastern China, is often referred to as the “Steel City”. The name is a testament to its significance in the steel industry, as Anshan is home to one of the largest steel production complexes in the country.

The city is situated in the Liaodong Peninsula and is characterised by its mountainous terrain and fertile plains. It has a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons: hot summers, cold winters, and mild springs and autumns. The annual average temperature of 9°C or so, make the area suitable for both agriculture and industry.

Anshan has several significant religious sites too, including the Jade Buddha Palace and the Anshan Dongshan Mountain. The Jade Buddha Palace houses a large jade Buddha statue; one of the largest of its kind in the world. The Anshan Dongshan Mountain is a sacred Buddhist site that attracts pilgrims and tourists alike.

The city has recently undergone rapid urban development. Investment in infrastructure projects, such as construction of new roads, bridges, and public transportation systems, has improved the quality of life for Anshan's residents and made the city much more accessible to both visitors and investors.

Anshan has a history that dates back to ancient times as a key site during the Warring States period. It later became an important centre of trade and commerce during the Han Dynasty. The city's development was significantly boosted in the early 20th century with the discovery of vast iron ore deposits, which led to the establishment of the Anshan Iron and Steel Company (Angang) in 1919.

Anshan is synonymous with steel production and the residents are proud to be associated with it. The Anshan Iron and Steel Company, also known as Ansteel, is one of the largest steel producers in China and has played a vital role in the city's industrial growth. Since it was first established, Ansteel has grown to become a leader in the global steel market. The company boasts blast furnaces, rolling mills, and coking plants, which together produce a significant portion of China's total steel output.

Steel production is the backbone of Anshan's economy. It provides employment to tens of thousands of people and contributes significantly to the local and national economy. The city's industrial output is heavily reliant on the steel sector, which also supports various related industries such as heavy plant and machinery manufacturing, construction, and automotive production.

But despite its industrial focus, Anshan has a thriving cultural scene. The city is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theatres, art galleries, and a zoo. The Anshan Museum (not to be confused with the Ansteel Museum) showcases the city's rich history and heritage, while the Anshan Theatre hosts various performances and cultural events throughout the year. It must also be said that the number of great restaurants in Anshan is incredible!

Anshan is famed for its Nanguo Li (pears), particularly during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Nanguo Li have been cultivated in Anshan for over 100 years and have a very distinct flavour. If you imagine the taste of a pear with a hint of apple, then that's Nanguo Li. With their flavour derived from the iron-rich soil of the mountains, Anshan Nanguo Li pears are one of China’s most desired regional fruits and command good prices due to their limited availability. Many growers claim that the mother tree is still alive. Believed to be over 130 years old, it now only bears fruit on one side of the trunk.

Anshan places a strong emphasis on education. The city has numerous schools and higher education institutions that offer a wide range of academic and vocational programs. Anshan Normal University is a prominent educational institution in the region, providing high-quality education and contributing to the city's intellectual and cultural development. Leading the field of senior high school institutions, Anshan No.1 (Senior) High School is highly respected by the city's high achievers. Teaching standards and expectations are high and competition for places is intense.

The city has a number of tourist attractions that draw visitors from across the country and beyond China's shores. The Qianshan National Park on the outskirts of the city, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities. The park is home to the Qianshan Hot Springs, which are believed to have therapeutic properties and attract many domestic and international tourists seeking relaxation and wellness.

Anshan is committed to environmental sustainability. Recently, with the help of central government funding, the city has implemented various initiatives to reduce pollution and promote green practices. These include measures to improve air and water quality, concerted efforts to increase green spaces, new parks and recreational areas, and promoting renewable energy sources.

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