Overseas Chinese in Min’an: Immigration and Coming back

Chandar Lin is an Asian teenager, but her Chinese is far less fluent than her English.

“I came here with my family. Although this place is new to me, I already think it’s good,” Chandar said.

“She was born and raised in New York”, Chandar’s father, Mr Lin said, “This is her first visit to her parents’ hometown, Min’an, Fuzhou. To me, everything here feels warm.”

Min’an is a well-known hometown of overseas Chinese. Today, more and more immigrants are returning to learn about their ancestors.

Three Generations of Overseas Chinese

Mr. Lin was born and brought up in Fuzhou. In 1989, when he was a senior-high-school student, he flew to the United States. As the second generation of overseas Chinese in his family, he has led a comfortable life and have more energy to devote to his studies.

“After two generations of hard work, our life has improved steadily. My children now enjoy an even more comfortable life in New York.” Mr. Lin said.

Chandar receives multicultural education and is also interested in Chinese culture. She can speak a few simple Chinese sentences. Learning the language and culture is an important part of her trip of China.

A Famous Hometown of Overseas Chinese

Since the Tang Dynasty, the ancient town of Min’an has been an important military outpost and customs port. With economic development and globalization, local people began to seek business opportunities overseas. Some of them settled abroad at the dawn of China’s reform and opening-up, 

Today, Min’an is home to a particularly large number of overseas Chinese. Although they now live in the United States, they still miss their hometown and have contributed greatly to its restoration. Thanks to the joint efforts of immigrants and the local government, Min’an has become a popular tourist destination.

 Min’an ancient town

Qiurong Chi, one of a volunteer tour guide, recounts the stories he heard from older generations to young visitors. Due to Chinese both at home and abroad, Min’an has regained vitality.

 Chi, who is giving an explanation

Fuzhou food in memory

Tourism has boosted the catering industry in Min’an. In a small restaurant, the shopkeeper who has been running the place for more than 30 years, says overseas Chinese drop in whenever they return.

“They love noodles here best.” she said.

 Famous noodles in Min’an

The restaurant opened when the shopkeeper was a new mother. Now her daughter has grown up and helps with the business. Customers have changed from young villagers to tourists and returning immigrants.

“In New York, when we miss home, we go to Chinatown. But food there is different.” Mr. Lin said. “There are some tastes that we can only find in our hometown.”

文字丨郑阳

图片 | 田丰玮 王韵众