Over the last four decades, China has experienced rapid urban growth and massive rural to urban migration.
By 2025, it is estimated that about 70% of Chinas population will be living in the cities.
Xian, an urban village engulfed by an expanding city in Guangzhou.
Photo credit: Eric Jenkins-Sahlin
Such rapid urbanization has transformed the spatial and social landscapes of Chinese cities.
Hundreds of such urban villages exist in large cities such as Guangzhou, Beijing and Shenzhen.
Photo credit: Eric Jenkins-Sahlin
Shipai, the largest urban village, in Guangzhou.
Photo credit:Andreas Schwarz/Panoramio
Houses in an urban village in Shenzen.
Photo credit:Mark Horn
Xian Village from the 16th floor of the Chun Du Hotel, Huangpu Dadao.
Photo credit:xianvillage.wordpress.com
Xian village.
Photo credit:Matjaz Tancic/Beijing Lens
An urban village in Guangzhou.
Photo credit:Sliv Chua/Flickr
Sources:Wikipedia/LSECities/Urban Villages in China: A 2008 Survey of Migrant [PDF]
