Shenzhen, China

Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Shenzhen, China

Introduction

Welcome to the vibrant city of Shenzhen! Known as China’s Silicon Valley, this metropolis offers a unique blend of modernity and traditional Chinese culture. This guide will help you navigate through its bustling streets, must-see attractions, scrumptious eateries, comfortable accommodations, and essential travel tips.

Places to Go

  1. Shenzhen Bay Park: Enjoy the stunning sea view, stroll along the promenade, or rent a bike and cycle around.
  2. OCT LOFT: A creative art zone showcasing contemporary art exhibitions, unique boutiques, and trendy restaurants.
  3. Window of The World: Visit this amusement park where you can see miniature replicas of famous global landmarks.
  4. Futian Market: Shop for electronics, clothing, and souvenirs in this bustling market.
  5. Shenzhen Museum: Learn about the city’s history and culture in this modern museum.
  6. Dameisha Beach: Relax on this beautiful beach and enjoy the sea view.
  7. Shekou (Xiaomeisha): Explore this seaside area with its unique European architecture, bars, and restaurants.
  8. Louhu (Luohu) Commercial City: A large shopping mall with a variety of stores and restaurants.
  9. Shenzhen Bay Sports Centre: Catch an event or just appreciate the architectural marvel.
  10. Dafen Oil Painting Village: Visit this art village known for its replicas of famous oil paintings.

Activities

  • Take a stroll in the Shenzhen Bay Park at night to see the beautiful light show.
  • Visit the Wutong Mountain for hiking and breathtaking views of the city.
  • Experience the APM (Automated People Mover) at Futian Checkpoint, one of the world’s longest driverless train systems.
  • Enjoy water sports like jet skiing and parasailing at Dameisha Beach.
  • Visit the Shenzhen Safari Park to see a variety of animals.

Where to Eat

  1. Yangshuo Restaurant (Shekou): Known for its delicious Sichuan cuisine.
  2. Taiwan Shizu Seafood Restaurant: Enjoy fresh seafood dishes in this popular restaurant.
  3. Xiaoma Jie (Louhu): A street filled with a variety of food stalls and restaurants.
  4. Rickshaw Friendship Restaurant (Shekou): Try their famous Peking Duck.
  5. Chaozhou Lao Shi Fang: Savor authentic Chaozhou cuisine in this traditional restaurant.

Where to Stay

  1. W Hotel Shenzhen: Luxury hotel with a great location and excellent amenities.
  2. Sheraton Dameisha Resort: A beachfront resort perfect for relaxation.
  3. Huanghe International Hotel: Budget-friendly option in the heart of Shenzhen.
  4. Pullman Shenzhen Bao’an: Modern hotel with great views and comfortable rooms.
  5. The Ritz-Carlton, Shenzhen: Luxury hotel with excellent service and facilities.

Things to Know

  1. Mandarin is the most commonly spoken language in Shenzhen, but many residents understand some English.
  2. Taxi drivers usually do not speak English, so it’s helpful to have addresses written in Chinese characters.
  3. Shenzhen uses the Yuan (CNY) as its currency.
  4. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  5. Download a reliable VPN before arriving to access international websites.

Transportation

  1. Metro: The metro is the most convenient way to get around Shenzhen.
  2. Bus: Buses are also available, but can be more crowded and less efficient than the metro.
  3. Taxi: Taxis are readily available, but ensure the taxi driver uses a meter.
  4. Bike-sharing: Bike-sharing schemes like Ofo and Mobike allow you to rent bikes for short trips.
  5. Ferry: Ferries run from Shekou to various destinations, including Hong Kong.

Tips

  1. Bargain when shopping in markets and street stalls.
  2. Always carry cash (Yuan) as some shops do not accept credit cards.
  3. Download a reliable map app for navigation.
  4. Respect local customs and traditions, especially during festivals.
  5. Enjoy your trip and embrace the Shenzhen experience!