Dapeng Rice Cakes

Last updated 2026-11-15 — The traditional handmade craft of making Dapeng rice cakes is mainly popular in the surrounding areas of Dapeng Ancient City and Dapeng Subdistrict in the Dapeng New District of Shenzhen. Dapeng rice cakes gradually took shape during the Hongwu and Yongle eras of the Ming Dynasty, boasting a history of over 600 years, and have been passed down without interruption. Particularly through the inheritance and development by the Lai family, the craftsmanship has seen significant improvement, making them a renowned specialty food of Dapeng Ancient City. Later, they became associated with the historically famous Battle of Kowloon, adding even richer historical significance, thus featuring distinct historical characteristics. They also reflect the dietary culture of the people in this region. Their formation and continuation are closely tied to the establishment of Dapeng Ancient City, as well as the hereditary system of soldiers, the garrison farming system, and military activities within the city, embodying unique features of a military-garrison culture.