Pingshan, China

With a population of 551,333, Pingshan is no quaint village. This rapidly developing district of Shenzhen is a hub of industry, home to major manufacturers like BYD and Jasic Technology. However, bureaucracy is a persistent headache - Pingshan was only formally established as a district in 2016, after years of shifting administrative boundaries. The Jasic Incident, where workers protested labor conditions, underscores the challenges of navigating Shenzhen's complex business landscape.

Ultimately, Pingshan offers opportunity for those drawn to the breakneck pace of China's industrial powerhouses, but it's no picnic for the faint of heart. The city's relentless growth and evolving identity make it best suited for the thick-skinned expat, not the casual tourist.