Dutch Pavilion in Shanghai Expo

2010-02-21 18:25 BJT

Special Report: Shanghai World Expo 2010 |

Time now to continue our special coverage on the Shanghai World Expo. When people think of the Netherlands, a low lying country with numerous dams, tulips and clogs come to mind. At the upcoming Wold Expo in Shanghai, the country will demonstrate that it has far more to offer.

The Dutch pavilion is called "Happy Street". It's an entire street in the shape of the number eight - an auspicious number in Chinese culture. 26 small houses will be elevated along the the 400-meter long main pedestrian strip. The houses will present exhibitions exploring themes such as energy, water, city space and many other urban issues.

Construction of the "happy street" will be completed by February.

In the meantime, the Dutch port city of Rotterdam will be represented at the Urban Best Practices Area, with a focus on water and delta technology. The Netherlands is world famous for building on pile foundations.

Around 40 percent of the country lies below sea level. The country hopes visitors can get a personal experience of what its like living below sea level. It also wants to share its experience in the management of water resources.