Building upon the cross-sectoral dialogues of the “PolyU Northern Metropolis Future Forum”, J.C.DISI organised a study tour to Guangzhou and Shunde on 18-19 April 2026. The mission was to conduct an in-depth exploration of how the dual empowerment of "Ecology × Experience" drives the revitalisation of industry and spatial use.
Leading a delegation of over 20 cross-disciplinary experts from government, academia, industry, and local charitable/non-profit sectors, the tour visited several innovative benchmarks of "Urban-Rural × Cultural Tourism" integration.
Study Tour Key Highlights:
Seeking Inspiration in Ancient Villages and Urban Spaces: From the Langtou ancient village revitalisation led by local government and residents, to the urban micro-regeneration and elderly space empowerment at No.2 Jiqun Street and Red Brick Yard, these cases demonstrate the immense commercial and social potential of low-impact development.
Dissolving Boundaries through Industry and Art: The delegation visited Zini 12 Gates to explore industrial heritage transformation and toured the FEI Arts Museum for community art practices, discussing the "boundless" concept that dissolves traditional life boundaries.
Breathing New Life into Ancient Village through Collaboration: The delegation explored the tripartite "Government-Society-Market" collaboration model for ecological restoration in Bijiang Village.
Through the exchange of ideas with experts and stakeholders from both Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland, these practical examples serve as valuable benchmarks for the Northern Metropolis in managing urban-rural relations and heritage revitalisation. Furthermore, they provide fresh momentum for future multi-party collaboration and social innovation.
💬 Mr Ken So | Chief Executive of The Conservancy Association
“The study tour to Guangzhou and Shunde highlighted that culture is not only the heart of urban-rural integration but also the bedrock of its sustainability. Understanding, respecting, and harnessing the unique heritage of Hong Kong’s rural villages will be pivotal to the future of the Northern Metropolis. My thanks to the J.C.DISI team for their meticulous coordination; it was a truly enriching experience.”
💬 Mr Timothy Ma | Chairman of Urban Renewal Fund
"The study tour impressed upon me that with a clear direction and a great strategy, redevelopment and community making in old districts can generate not only a new impact but also mobilise the total effort of the community. Hence, if our policymakers can tell the entire story and potential benefits to the affected citizens, we shall surely gain their support."
💬 Ms Kendith Cheung | Service Manager of Po Leung Kuk Lee Shau Kee Youth Oasis
"This dual-empowerment study tour, themed ‘Urban-Rural x Cultural Tourism’, allowed me to delve deep into the urban-rural fabric of Guangzhou and Shunde. From the creative ingenuity of Zini 12 Gates to Shunde’s forward-thinking administrative planning and spatial transformation, every stop showcased the immense vitality inherent in urban-rural integration. These site visits have been deeply thought-provoking, prompting me to reflect on how we can translate these insights into constructive recommendations for the development of the Northern Metropolis. I look forward to contributing a broader range of perspectives to help create liveable, innovative communities in the future.”
