Located in the southeast of Beijing, Tongzhou is often referred to as the eastern gateway to the Chinese capital. With its strategic location at the northern end of the Grand Canal and the easternmost point of Chang'an Avenue, this district has transformed into a hub of administration, culture, and cutting-edge technology.
At the center of Tongzhou's transformation stands the Beijing Municipal Administrative Center (BMAC), proof of the city's vision for sustainability and green development.
This contemporary complex represents Beijing's attempts to decentralize and ease traffic in its historic center.
As I strolled through the administrative center, I was astounded by how well it integrated eco-friendly architecture and cutting-edge urban planning with its surroundings.
The exhibits within the building narrate the remarkable story of Beijing's growth, showcasing decades of urban evolution while staying rooted in its cultural identity.
Drifting through history on the Grand Canal
Leaving the administrative center, I set off for a boat ride on the Grand Canal, a moment that turned out to be both educational and deeply immersive.
As I sat on the upper deck, a chill from the air bit through my t-shirt, but I hardly noticed. The guide's narration transported me centuries back to when this marvel of engineering was constructed.
Built over 1,400 years ago, the Grand Canal is the longest and oldest canal in the world, stretching over 1,700 kilometers and connecting Beijing to Hangzhou.
This waterway, once a lifeline for trade and cultural exchange, passes through different municipalities and provinces, facilitating the movement of goods and people for generations.
Listening to its history while gliding over its waters was an amazing experience.
A library like no other
From history to innovation, my next stop was the Beijing Library, a structure that left me fascinated the moment I walked in. Its stunning architecture, which was designed to mimic a mountain, is an example of how science and nature can coexist.
Stepping inside, I was overwhelmed by the sheer scale of its collection. Home to over 8 million books, including works by President Xi Jinping, the library attracts 10,000 visitors on weekdays and twice that number on weekends.
What fascinated me the most was the technology embedded within the facility. From AI-powered book-sorting robots to immersive digital reading experiences, the library represents the future of learning.
If it weren't for my tight schedule, I would have spent an entire day exploring its many wonders.
The innovation hub of tomorrow
Beyond its cultural and historical sites, Tongzhou is fast becoming a hub for technology and new energy enterprises. Companies like Colorfulead, Bor Ewin Technology Co Ltd and Wisson are leading the way in green innovations and robotics.
As my day in Tongzhou came to an end, I reflected on what makes this district so unique. It is a place where history, nature, and technology intertwine to create something extraordinary.
Mugisha Christian
