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Situated on the shore of Sha Tau Kok, Shenzhen, Minsk World 明斯克大世界 is somewhat unique, in that it is one of only two theme parks in the world to be based on a real aircraft carrier, the other being in Tianjin. The park is built around the base of Minsk, a second-generation Soviet aircraft carrier, one of the most outstanding in the history of routine aircraft carriers. Minsk was built in 1972 and was first listed as part of the Soviet Union Navy Pacific Fleet in 1978. It was retired after the Cold War and sold to Korea in 1993. In June of 1998, Minsk was purchased by the Minsk Company for the purpose of creating a military-themed tourist attraction. In the past ten years, its development has evolved, taking it from a mere theme park to a center for popular science education as well as national defense education. It is praised for being both a National Popular Science Education Base and a Guangdong Military Popular Science Education Base. Once composed of only the Minsk Aircraft Carrier, the park has expanded. Now, Minsk World is made up of two parts: the Minsk Aircraft Carrier (at sea) and Minsk Square (on land). These sections are connected by a military bridge that is 10 meters (10.9 yards) wide and 90 meters (98.5 yards) long.

The Minsk Aircraft Carrier covers an area of 30,000 square meters (7.4 acres). The well-known Soviet MiG-23 aircraft-fighter and Mi-24 military helicopters are on display on the first deck, while on the second deck, the crew’s living area has been rebuilt to give visitors a glimpse of the conditions of naval life. There are also exhibitions on space flight, sailing and aviation, and visitors can take part in activities, such as mimic warfare, that allow them to experience the excitement of operating hi-tech military weapons. Russian traditional performances and martial performances of the honor guard round out the list of attractions available on the ship.

Back on land, Minsk Square also offers a variety of entertainment for visitors, from historical re-enactments to shopping and dining. The Square encompasses 80, 0000 square kilometers (19.8 acres) and is divided into three sections: the Back Square, the Front Square and the Aircraft Carrier Center. When entering the Front Square, visitors are greeted by the sight of the guard of honor, flanked by sentries on both sides. This Square features a sculpture called ‘Turn Swords into Ploughs’ which calls for deep thought about the hard-earned peace. While the Back Square emphasizes military entertainment, featuring a soul stirring naval battle simulation that is not to be missed. The tank position and air base are also located there. The third section of Minsk Square is the Aircraft Carrier Center, a multi-functional building with a distinctive architectural style. Here, guests can do some shopping and have a relaxing dinner to complete their visit.

The area is characterized by tree-lined streets with wide (5-20 meter) footpaths. Huaqiangbei itself is lined by large buildings each specializing in commercial electronics, consumer electronics or women’s clothing. The latter range from top Hong Kong and international designer label shops to locally produced good quality clothing, shoes and bags. Fake goods are largely absent from this area, unlike the other major shopping areas of Dongmen and Luohu Commercial City.

The surrounding streets are lined by clothing shops, hotels, restaurants from all provinces of China with prices ranging from 10RMB to 100RMB per person, western fast food outlets, massage parlours (only for massage), discothèques, various small stores and several international supermarkets.