In 2009, on average some 5.5 million passenger trips were made between Hong Kong and the mainland on a daily basis. Photos by Michelle Fei / China Daily

The portrait of Deng Xiaoping in downtown Shenzhen is the city's landmark. Deng was recognized as "the father of Shenzhen" as he proposed to make Shenzhen a "special economic zone", and ever since the city had been experiencing significant economic growth and greater economic integration with neighboring Hong Kong.

The 15 years since Hong Kong was handed back to China have seen significant increases in the number of Hong Kong residents taking up residence in Shenzhen. They may be eager youth, looking for a stronger career path; they may also be elderly folks, seeking a higher-quality retired life. Anyone from either group is usually referred to as: Shenzhen-Hong Konger. Michelle Fei reports.

(HK Edition 06/09/2012 page4)