DEFINITION: Shanzai [San-zai -alt. sp.Shanzhai] 1. mountain fortress/bandit 2. a vendor, who operates a business without observing the traditional rules or practices often resulting in innovative and unusual products or business models.
Mr. Shi grew up the son of peasants in China's Sichuan province. An active imagination made up for what he lacked. "When I was a little boy, I wanted so badly to drive a car," he said. "But then it was rare even to see a car on the road, let alone drive one. So I would make a car from blankets and drive in bed. It was great fun!"
--Imitation Is the Sincerest Form of Rebellion in China
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