Spanning an ambitious 40-kilometer corridor along the Pingshan River in Shenzhen’s Guangdong Province, the Blueway reinvents conventional flood infrastructure into a vibrant, biodiverse public landscape that reconnects city and nature. Sasaki’s plan reintroduces native vegetation across mountain, foothill, and riverbank habitats, enhancing ecological networks while fostering a resilient environment that supports aquatic life and mitigates climate impacts. Extensive tree canopies, passive climate-responsive design, and reuse of existing materials further improve microclimates, reduce heat island effects, and lower embodied carbon.

Beyond its ecological ambitions, the Blueway places community and culture at its heart. A participatory design process engaged local Hakka communities, scholars, and diverse stakeholders to ensure the landscape reflects and amplifies the region’s heritage and identity. Drawing inspiration from Hakka traditions, the project weaves cultural motifs such as blue dyeing into public spaces, pavilions, bridges, and furnishings, creating what Sasaki describes as the Pingshan Outdoor Gallery — a continuous public realm that celebrates the dialogue between mountain, river, and city.

The holistic landscape strategy also prioritizes accessibility and social connectivity: continuous bike paths link the Blueway to public transport, while new public spaces and water management systems enhance safety, mobility, and everyday enjoyment for residents and visitors alike. Economically, the publicly funded project emphasizes cost-effective solutions — reusing materials on site and leveraging native plantings that require minimal maintenance — to ensure long-term viability and catalyze future riverfront revitalization.

In their appraisal, the Holcim Foundation jury praised the project’s integrated vision and transferable design model, noting how it transforms flood mitigation infrastructure into a living, accessible system that advances both ecological health and urban life. The jury highlighted the project’s potential as a benchmark for sustainable development in dense urban settings across Asia and beyond.

As Sasaki continues implementation in collaboration with local partners, the Pingshan River Blueway stands as a compelling example of how infrastructure can be reimagined to nurture nature, culture, and community in harmony.

Learn more about the Holcim Foundation Awards and Sasaki’s recognition here.