China has experienced the fastest urbanization in history. Today, more than 940 million Chinese, or 67 percent of the population, live in cities, a dramatic rise from just 18 percent in the 1970s. But Chinese cities are evidently entering a new phase—urban renewal—driven by the urgent need for upgrade. As high-rise residential complexes age and the real estate market cools, residents face the pressing challenge of maintaining and repairing their buildings. Traditional shopping centers are also losing ground to online retail.
In our feature stories, we go behind the scenes of Beijing’s first-ever pro wrestling event to find out why people are happily paying good money to watch scripted fights, and learn about Chinese pro wrestling’s hard road to wider recognition. We also investigate a persistent public health concern: public smoking, which remains widespread despite ongoing awareness campaigns.
Beyond the cities, we journey from Guizhou’s rural runway to Yunnan’s butterfly sanctuary, from mysterious royal tombs of a lost dynasty in Ningxia to the cradle of Chinese vinegar in Shanxi. Together, these stories capture the diverse forces shaping contemporary China. Enjoy the read!
Urban Renewal: China’s Urbanization Is Entering a New Phase is a story from our issue, “Urban Renewal.” To read the entire issue, become a subscriber and receive the full magazine.
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