Things To Do
in Shenzhen
Shenzhen is a dynamic metropolis on China’s southern coast, known for its futuristic skyline and rapid development since its designation as the first Special Economic Zone in 1980. The city blends cutting-edge urban districts with cultural enclaves and green spaces, offering a fascinating juxtaposition of modernity and tradition. Shenzhen’s proximity to Hong Kong and its thriving tech industry have attracted a diverse population, creating a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Year-round events, sprawling shopping hubs, and coastal escapes make it an exciting destination for visitors seeking both business and leisure experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day watching the sunrise over Shenzhen Bay. Check into your hotel and enjoy a local breakfast of congee and steamed buns. Stroll along the waterfront promenade to absorb the fresh sea breeze.
Head to Shekou for lunch at a seafood restaurant overlooking the harbor. Visit Sea World Plaza for its international dining options and quirky docked cruise ship. Explore nearby art galleries and public sculptures.
Dine at Shuiwei Seafood Restaurant for freshly caught prawns and fish. Walk along the illuminated Shekou Sea Port Scenic Area. End the night with a glass of wine at a waterfront bar.
Begin at Luohu Commercial City for a traditional Cantonese breakfast of dim sum and soy milk. Wander through the sprawling shopping complex hunting for unique trinkets. Observe the bustling trade atmosphere and haggle for souvenirs.
Cross the border and explore the cultural blend at Luohu Port Plaza. Visit Dongmen Pedestrian Street for local snacks like stinky tofu and skewers. Peek into small boutiques offering local designer brands.
Have dinner at a Cantonese restaurant serving roast goose and char siu. Experience the vibrant night market atmosphere along nearby alleys. Cap off the evening with a street performance or live music show.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-5 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚇Metro ride (one way) | $0.5-1 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $30-50 |
| 🍹Cocktail at bar | $8-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Ultra-modern infrastructure and efficient transit
- Diverse food scene and creative art districts
- Proximity to Hong Kong and coastal getaways
- Hot, humid summers with typhoon risk
- High population density leads to crowds
- Language barrier outside tourist areas
- "你好 (nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (xiè xiè)" - Thank you
- "多少钱? (duō shǎo qián?)" - How much?
- "请问 (qǐng wèn)" - Excuse me/May I ask?
Places to Visit in Shenzhen
Visit one of these nice places.
Miniature global landmarks with vibrant gardens—ideal for colorful, whimsical shots.
Golden sands and sea vistas, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Industrial-turned-art district with murals, sculpture gardens, and cozy cafés.
Cityscape views framed by banyan trees at the summit.
Food in Shenzhen
Shenzhen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed dumplings, buns, and rice rolls—try them at Da Ban Ji or local tea houses in Futian.
Must-Try!
Fresh prawns, clams, and fish cooked tableside; popular at seaside restaurants in Shekou.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling alleys with skewers, fried dumplings, bubble tea and local snacks.
Electronics by day, street-food stalls by night—sample oyster omelets and beef offal soup.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light handshake or nod is typical; use polite titles and surnames until invited to use first names.
Form orderly lines for buses, metros and shopping—it’s taken seriously in Shenzhen.
Bring a small gift when visiting a local’s home; avoid clocks or umbrellas, which have unlucky connotations.
Safety
Tipping in Shenzhen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in mainland China and often included in service charges at upscale venues.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate; carry cash or a UnionPay card as backup.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures (15–25°C) and blooming cherry blossoms—ideal for outdoor exploration.
Hot and humid (28–35°C) with frequent afternoon showers and occasional typhoons—stay hydrated.
Clear skies and comfortable weather (20–28°C)—peak season for festivals and hiking.
Mild and dry (10–20°C) with rare cold snaps—perfect for city walks without heavy coats.
Shenzhen at Night
Hiking in Shenzhen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Highest peak in Shenzhen with diverse flora and scenic trails.
Shaded paths and waterfalls, less crowded than Wutong.
Gentler routes around a scenic reservoir near the city center.
Airports
How to reach Shenzhen by plane.
Main airport 32 km from downtown with metro and airport express bus links.
Accessible via MTR and ferry in ~1.5 hours—ideal for international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Millions of internal migrants from central and western China fueling the city’s growth.
Tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and educators from around the world.
Original residents preserving linguistic and cultural traditions amid rapid development.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Park courts and community centers are busy with amateurs and pros.
Clubs and public centers host daily matches and tournaments.
Seasonal events on Shenzhen Bay, reflecting Cantonese traditions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shenzhen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Seek out Buddhist vegetarian spots like Pure Lotus, and many dim sum houses offer vegetable dumplings.
Several Hui Muslim eateries in Nanshan serve hand-pulled noodles and lamb kebabs.