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Introduction to Yuhuan, Taizhou
Yuhuan is a county-level city administratively part of Taizhou Prefecture in Zhejiang Province, China. It is not a single island but an administrative region composed of Yuhuan Island (玉环岛) itself and numerous smaller surrounding islands.
Historically an island city, a major landmark project in the early 21st century connected it to the mainland, transforming its geography and economy.
Here are the key aspects to know about Yuhuan:
1. Geography and the Landmark Project: The Yuhuan Dam
Island City Turned Peninsula: Yuhuan's most defining geographical feature is the Yuhuan Dam (玉环坝), a massive sea-crossing causeway completed in 2005.
Connection to Mainland: This dam physically linked Yuhuan Island to the mainland, turning it from a true island into a peninsula. This dramatically improved transportation, boosted economic development, and integrated Yuhuan more closely with the Taizhou metropolitan area.
2. Economic Strengths: "China's Valve Capital" and More
Yuhuan is a powerhouse in manufacturing, known for its specialized and robust private economy.
Valves and Plumbing Fittings: It is famously known as "China's Valve Capital" (中国阀门之都). A significant portion of China's valves and water system components are produced here, supplying both domestic and international markets.
Automobile Parts: It is also a major production base for automobile and motorcycle parts.
Furniture: Yuhuan has a well-developed furniture manufacturing industry, particularly known for modern steel-wood furniture.
Oxygen Production Equipment: It holds the title "China's Oxygen Valve Manufacturing Base."
3. Tourism and Culture
While industrial, Yuhuan offers scenic coastal landscapes and cultural sites.
Damen Island (大鹿岛): A beautiful forested island known as the "Forest Park at Sea." It's famous for its unique rock formations and coastal scenery. It's also an "Island of Sculptures," featuring numerous stone sculptures created by artists.
Fishing Villages and Seafood: As a coastal city, Yuhuan offers fresh and delicious seafood. Visiting a local fishing village to enjoy a seafood meal is a popular activity.
Yuhuan Tune (玉环鼓词): A traditional local form of storytelling and ballad singing, which is an intangible cultural heritage of the region.
4. Administrative Status
Yuhuan City (玉环市): It was upgraded from a county to a county-level city in 2017, reflecting its economic success and developmental status.