Shenzhen, a vibrant city in southern China, boasts a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking modernity. Known for its innovative spirit, Shenzhen has transformed from a small fishing village to a sprawling metropolis in just four decades. As one of China’s top tourist destinations, the city offers a multitude of attractions for visitors keen on exploring its unique charm.
The coastal areas of Shenzhen are dotted with picturesque beaches, such as Dameisha and Xiaomeisha, offering both relaxation and water sports opportunities. For those interested in history, the ancient village of Dapeng Fortress is a must-see, dating back more than six centuries and providing a glimpse into the city’s storied past. Meanwhile, if shopping and entertainment are on the agenda, the bustling Dongmen Pedestrian Street and OCT-LOFT Creative Culture Park present a mix of local and international brands, as well as dynamic art and cultural spaces.
In addition to these attractions, Shenzhen showcases impressive futuristic architecture. The cityscape is defined by iconic structures like the Ping An International Finance Centre – one of the world’s tallest buildings – and the KK100 skyscraper. Moreover, Shenzhen’s various theme parks, such as Window of the World and Happy Valley, offer immersive experiences and family-friendly fun, making it an ideal destination for visitors of all ages and interests.
Top Attractions
Window of the World
Window of the World is a must-visit attraction in Shenzhen, offering a unique experience to explore the world’s most iconic landmarks in miniature form. This theme park covers an area of 480,000 square meters and features over 130 reproductions of famous sites such as the Eiffel Tower, the Great Wall of China, and the Pyramids of Giza. In addition to sightseeing, visitors can enjoy various performances, festivals, and events throughout the year.
Splendid China Folk Village
Splendid China Folk Village showcases the diverse cultures and traditional architecture of China’s 56 ethnic groups. It is divided into two parts: the Miniature Scenic Area and the China Folk Culture Village. The Miniature Scenic Area displays miniatures of notable Chinese landmarks, while the China Folk Culture Village features live performances, folk arts, and crafts exhibitions.
China Folk Culture Village
Located adjacent to Splendid China Folk Village, China Folk Culture Village is a cultural theme park that provides a glimpse into the customs and traditions of China’s many ethnic groups. The park is divided into 24 villages, each representing a different ethnic group. Visitors can experience a variety of activities, such as traditional dance performances, taste local cuisines, and participate in unique festivals.
Shenzhen Museum
Shenzhen Museum, situated in the heart of the city in the Luohu District, is a perfect destination for those interested in history, art, and culture. The museum boasts a collection of more than 20,000 pieces, including relics from Guangdong Province, ancient Chinese calligraphy and paintings, and exhibits showcasing Shenzhen’s transformation from a fishing village to a bustling metropolis.
Dafen Oil Painting Village
Dafen Oil Painting Village, located in the Longgang District, is internationally renowned for its thriving community of artists concentrated in one area. This unique place offers visitors a chance to witness the process of painting creation, purchase high-quality art reproductions at affordable prices, and even commission custom pieces. Dafen is an essential stop for art enthusiasts visiting Shenzhen.
Outdoor Activities
Wutong Mountain
Wutong Mountain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Shenzhen. Famous for its lush forests and diverse flora and fauna, it attracts both locals and travelers alike. Hiking and climbing enthusiasts can challenge themselves to reach the summit where they will be rewarded with panoramic views of the city’s skyscrapers, including the stunning Ping An International Finance Centre.
Fairy Lake Botanical Garden
Fairy Lake Botanical Garden is a remarkable site for nature lovers, boasting over 6,000 plant species within its confines. Spread across a vast area, this garden features a multitude of themed areas, including rainforests, deserts, and medicinal herb gardens. In addition to appreciating the beauty of nature, visitors can also partake in birdwatching or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the well-maintained pathways.
Xichong Beach
For beachgoers, Xichong Beach is a must-visit spot in Shenzhen. Known for its pristine waters and white sand, this picturesque beach offers a perfect getaway from the bustling city. Visitors can engage in various water sports, such as surfing, swimming or simply relax under the sun, surrounded by lush trees.
Nanshan Mountain
Located in the Nanshan District, Nanshan Mountain is an ideal destination for those seeking a combination of outdoor adventure and cultural immersion. Visitors can hike the mountain trails to enjoy the natural beauty, visit the nearby Nanshan Temple, or explore the Kid Valley amusement park for hours of family fun. As travelers ascend the mountain, they are treated to ever-changing views of the city’s impressive skyline and unending greenery.
Shopping and Dining
Huaqiangbei
Huaqiangbei is often called the electronics capital of the world, and for good reason. Located in the center of Shenzhen, this vibrant shopping district offers a wide range of electronic gadgets and accessories at competitive prices. The area is well-connected by metro, with Huaqiang Road Station (Line 1) being the nearest.
In addition to the plethora of tech stores, Huaqiangbei is also home to a variety of restaurants and street food vendors. Here you can find both traditional Chinese cuisine and international options. Some of the must-try dishes are dim sum, hot pot, and grilled skewers. Delight your taste buds as you explore the bustling streets of Huaqiangbei.
When it comes to dining options, families with kids may want to head over to Coco Park Mall, which offers a range of kid-friendly restaurants and a host of activities for the little ones.
Luohu Commercial City
Situated right at the border between Shenzhen and Hong Kong, Luohu Commercial City is a popular shopping destination for both locals and tourists. It is easily accessible via Luohu Station (Line 1) or a short walk from the Luohu border checkpoint.
The mall is famous for its tailored clothing shops, where you can get custom-made outfits at great prices. Additionally, you’ll find a variety of inexpensive goods, such as jewelry, handbags, toys, and souvenirs. Bargaining is expected at most stores, so you can further save on your purchases.
Foodies will find plenty of dining options at Luohu Commercial City. There are numerous restaurants and cafes, featuring both Chinese and international cuisines. Sea World is a notable dining destination, with a variety of seafood selections available. While there, don’t forget to try some delicious local specialties like Hakka dishes and the famous Shenzhen street food.
For a more authentic experience, explore the nearby urban villages filled with bustling food stalls, small eateries, and local markets. This is the perfect place to savor traditional Chinese dishes and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Historic Sites and Cultural Experiences
Nanshan District Historic Sites
In Shenzhen’s Nanshan District, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and cultural experiences. One notable site is the Ancient Tea Town, where travelers can explore traditional tea culture that dates back to the ancient tea trading routes in Guangdong.
- Tea Stream Valley is another must-visit site, known for its immaculately preserved ancient architecture and picturesque tea fields.
Additionally, Nanshan District is the perfect place to learn about China’s modern history, as it is home to the Deng Xiaoping bronze statue. This iconic monument pays tribute to the former Chinese leader, who played a significant role in Shenzhen’s rapid development.
Futian CBD
The Futian Central Business District (CBD) offers a unique blend of historic sites and modern experiences. It is located near the Luohu area, which shares a border with Hong Kong. Visitors to Futian CBD can experience a vibrant mix of business and cultural attractions.
Futian CBD is an excellent place to learn about China’s Southern history. Within close proximity, the Guangdong Museum showcases the region’s history and culture, from ancient times to present day.
Don’t forget to bring your passport when touring the Luohu and Futian CBD areas, as crossing between Shenzhen and Hong Kong requires a valid travel document.
Tips for Travelling in Shenzhen
Hotels and Accommodation
When visiting Shenzhen, a wide range of hotels and accommodations are available to suit every budget. For luxury stays, consider hotels in the Nanshan or Futian districts, while budget-friendly options can be found closer to the Luohu area. Some popular hotels in Shenzhen include:
- The Ritz-Carlton, Shenzhen
- The St. Regis Shenzhen
- Shenzhen Marriott Hotel Nanshan
For a more local experience, you may explore Airbnb or boutique hotels in neighborhoods like Shekou, which offer a variety of scenic spots, restaurants, and design shops.
Transportation Options
Navigating Shenzhen is relatively easy due to its extensive public transport network:
- Metro: The Shenzhen Metro is convenient, reliable, and affordable, with 11 lines covering most tourist attractions, shopping malls, and entertainment areas. Fares range from 2 to 11 RMB and can be paid using a Shenzhen Tong card, which can be purchased at metro stations.
- Buses: Shenzhen boasts a well-connected bus network, though timetables may be challenging to understand if you don’t speak or read Chinese. Bus fares start at 2 RMB.
- Taxis: Taxis are affordable and plentiful. However, not all drivers speak English, so having your destination’s Chinese address handy is recommended.
- Ridesharing: DiDi is the most popular ridesharing app in China and can be a convenient way to get around if you have a Chinese mobile number.
To get from the Shenzhen Airport to the city, you can use the metro line 11 or take the Airport Express shuttle buses. For those traveling to and from Hong Kong, cross-border buses or the MTR East Rail Line to Luohu Port can be convenient options.
While exploring the city, make sure to check out these popular destinations:
- Park: Shenzhen is home to numerous parks, including the expansive Lianhua Mountain Park and the tranquil Shenzhen Bay Park.
- Restaurants: Shenzhen is a culinary hub offering a vast array of dining options, from local Chinese cuisine to international fare. For unique dining experiences, visit OCT-Loft or Sea World in Shekou.
- Shopping Malls: Shenzhen is a shopper’s paradise, with malls like MixC World, Coco Park, and the Luohu Commercial City offering everything from luxury brands to local bargains.
- Coffee and Design Shops: Trendy areas like OCT-Loft and Shekou are ideal for exploring innovative design shops and relaxing in cozy coffee spots.
