China launches the Caojing Digital Nomad International Village to attract digital nomads
If you’ve ever wanted to experience Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, vibrant culture, and global business buzz but from a more tranquil and relaxed spot, now you can.
China unveiled its newest and most innovative remote working hub, the Caojing Digital Nomad International Village, which promises to offer digital nomads the perfect blend of high-tech convenience and serene rural living.
Shanghais' first digital nomad village officially opened its doors to the first group of nomads on August 31, 2024.
A digital nomad village that marries technology with nature
The Caojing Digital Nomad International Village is located in Caojing Country Park, part of the Jinshan District, a suburban district of southwestern Shanghai.
With its 3.66 square kilometers, of which 40% of the area is made up of water, the village aims to provide the ideal balance between a peaceful setting and the conveniences of city life for a productive remote work environment.
The project is part of China’s rural revitalization strategy, aimed at bringing new vitality to rural areas by turning them into modern hubs for innovation, culture, and global lifestyle trends. And Caojing has been designated as one of the country’s first demonstration villages for this initiative, showcasing how rural spaces can be transformed into centers of creativity and international appeal.
“By leveraging Caojing’s rich cultural and natural resources, along with advanced digital infrastructure, we are shaping the future of rural revitalization”, said Wang Yongmei, Secretary of the Party Committee of Caojing Town, at the village’s opening ceremony. She highlighted that the village combines a "rural landscape, urban conveniences, cultural depth, and international flair" creating a vibrant environment for digital nomads while fostering a youth-friendly global community.
A new home for digital nomads in China
The Shanghai Caojing Digital Nomad International Village is a joint project between Yuanxiang Yingke and Caojing Town and represents a unique fusion of technology and nature. It features world-class digital infrastructure, with the support of China Telecom, ensuring 5G network coverage across the entire village. This guarantees high-speed connectivity for remote workers, enhancing their ability to work and collaborate globally while enjoying this nature-rich environment.
Beyond the essentials, the village boasts creative and relaxing workstations, such as waterfront workstations, lotus pond workstations, and coffee workstations, offering nomads unique and inspiring spaces to work.
“The first phase of the village has already been completed”, said a representative from the Jinshan District Development and Reform Commission. "We provide digital nomads with all the necessary amenities, including accommodation, catering, fitness, and entertainment services".
But the village’s vision extends far beyond providing just a place to work. The goal is to create a holistic living environment where digital nomads can thrive by offering spaces and activities that foster community and collaboration. As part of their initial experience, the first batch of 12 digital nomads who have moved in will engage in activities such as cycling along scenic rural routes, cultural exploration tours, and collaborative projects to shape the future of the village itself.
Revitalizing China's rural areas through innovation
The launch of this digital nomad village is a key step in Shanghai’s broader rural revitalization goals. Jinshan District, where Caojing is located, has been identified as a region ripe for development and innovation. A spokesperson from the Jinshan District Development and Reform Commission said:
“The participation of digital nomads is crucial for us. Their presence brings fresh ideas, new technologies, and novel business models, which will help further develop the rural economy.”
This initiative aligns with the national strategy of revitalizing rural areas through innovative and sustainable development. The village’s design, in fact, emphasizes sustainability and the environment, with a focus on creating livable spaces that blend rural charm with the conveniences of city life. The goal is to attract a new generation of professionals who are seeking a lifestyle that balances work, well-being, and environmental consciousness.
Shanghai as a global hub for digital nomads
Beyond the immediate practical benefits, the Caojing Digital Nomad International Village aims to build a vibrant international community. Speaking at the opening event, Tan Lin, a pioneer of China's digital nomad movement and a former CEO of Microsoft Accelerator Beijing, discussed the increasing importance of digital nomads in the global economy:
“Digital nomads are emerging as ‘super individuals’ in the AI era. Their mobility and ability to collaborate across borders are invaluable in shaping the future of work” – Tan Lin, former CEO of Microsoft Accelerator Beijing
The village is poised to become a central hub for digital nomads worldwide. During the opening ceremony, several digital nomads shared their stories, showcasing the diversity of the community. These individuals, hailing from different parts of the globe, offered firsthand insight into the nomadic lifestyle and how this village provides them with a unique environment in which to thrive.
China's global invitation to digital nomads
Wang Yongmei extended a heartfelt invitation to digital nomads worldwide, “We welcome digital nomads to Caojing to create, grow, and connect in this global village. We are building a space where the future of work and lifestyle converge, creating opportunities for mutual growth and innovation”.
As part of its ongoing development, the village plans to host influential events, workshops, and community-driven initiatives to deepen relationships within the digital nomad community and foster long-term engagement. Plans are also underway to further expand the village’s offerings to include additional amenities and workstations, ensuring it remains a top destination for the growing global nomad population.
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