Step into the Taishan Overseas Chinese Culture Museum, and you’ll find more than just artifacts—you’ll find pieces of your story. From the tearful goodbyes at Guanghai Port to the inspiring legacy of the Sunning Railway, this museum brings to life the struggles, sacrifices, and triumphs of the Taishanese diaspora. Whether you’re reconnecting with your roots…
Emigration Stories
Learn about the migration stories of Wuyi residents, their journeys to Southeast Asia, North America, and other parts of the world. Explore how Wuyi families have preserved their cultural heritage across generations.
As 2024 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the journey we’ve shared through Roots of China. What began as a dream years ago has blossomed into a vibrant space where stories of migration, resilience, and heritage come to life. From the iconic Diaolou towers of Kaiping to the heartfelt tale of a…
After over a century of migration, spanning continents and generations, Ian Tham embarks on a heartfelt journey to rediscover his ancestral roots in China. From Kaiping to Enping, long-lost villages and family connections are brought back to life, offering a powerful reflection on heritage, identity, and the resilience of family ties.
The Sunning Railway (新宁铁路), built in the early 20th century by Taishan’s overseas Chinese community, stands as a remarkable testament to unity and ambition. Spanning 138 kilometers, this railway connected remote villages to bustling markets, transforming Taishan into an economic and cultural hub. Led by visionary Chen Yixi, who rose from humble beginnings to master…
rom the bustling streets of California during the Gold Rush to the ports of Southeast Asia, Wuyi emigrants left their mark on the world. Their journeys not only transformed their lives but also fueled economic resilience and cultural preservation in their hometowns—Kaiping, Xinhui, Enping, Heshan, and Taishan. Through hard work, philanthropy, and entrepreneurial spirit, these…
Discover the rich stories behind Kaiping’s diaolou towers in our latest podcast! These unique, fortified towers are a blend of Chinese and Western design, built for protection and family honor. Dive into tales of resilience, global connections, and cultural identity, all embodied within these fascinating structures. Perfect for history enthusiasts and heritage explorers alike!
…
Discover the profound stories of the Wuyi (五邑) emigrants whose resilience and contributions have shaped both their adopted communities and their homeland. From the heartfelt Qiaopi letters (侨批) that connected families across oceans to the towering Kaiping Diaolou that symbolize cultural fusion, the legacy of Wuyi emigrants is a testament to courage, adaptation, and enduring…
Discover the rich migration history of China’s Wuyi region, where generations of families from Kaiping, Xinhui, Enping, Heshan, and Taishan embarked on journeys to Southeast Asia, North America, and beyond. Explore the cultural legacy, resilience, and impact of these migrants as they built communities, preserved heritage, and transformed lives across the globe. From the iconic…
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Taishan (台山), known as the “First Home of Overseas Chinese” in Guangdong, China. From historic Diaolou towers to bustling festivals and authentic cuisine, Taishan offers a unique window into the legacy of Chinese migration and cultural fusion. At Roots of China, we craft immersive journeys that go…
Originally comprising only four counties—Kaiping, Xinhui, Taishan, and Enping—the region now known as Wuyi expanded in 1983 with the addition of Heshan, blending historical roots with industrial growth. Join us as we explore Wuyi’s unique journey, from its legacy as the ‘hometown of overseas Chinese’ to its role in the Greater Bay Area, where tradition…