From a humble market town to a sprawling metropolis of over 12 million residents, Shenzhen has undergone a remarkable transformation in the last half-century. Today, it stands as one of China’s premier destinations for retail therapy, attracting visitors eager to explore its countless shopping centers and stores offering an astonishing array of goods. But Shenzhen is more than just a shopper’s paradise. This dynamic city, bridging Hong Kong and mainland China, offers a diverse tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered.
While renowned for its bustling malls and family-friendly amusement parks, Shenzhen boasts a wealth of attractions that extend far beyond the realm of commerce. From tranquil botanical gardens and historic villages to tantalizing street food and challenging golf courses, Shenzhen presents a multifaceted appeal. Whether you’re just passing through or planning an extended stay, prepare to be captivated by the unexpected delights this city has to offer. Let’s delve into some of the best things to do in Shenzhen, China, that will make your visit memorable.
Immerse Yourself in Nature at Fairy Lake Botanical Garden
Escape the urban bustle and find serenity within the sprawling Fairy Lake Botanical Garden. Nestled alongside a man-made reservoir, this verdant oasis showcases over 8,000 plant species, making it a haven for both science and leisure. The garden serves as a vital site for scientific research and botanical studies, while also welcoming visitors to explore its diverse collections.
Wander through themed gardens dedicated to specific plant families, such as bamboo, magnolias, and rare trees. Step into the enchanting Butterfly House, where delicate winged creatures flutter amidst a vibrant display of orchids, including the captivating Dancing Lady orchid. Beyond the botanical wonders, discover picturesque pagodas and bridges gracing the lake, and visit an active Buddhist temple, adding a touch of cultural significance to your visit. For the adventurous, nearly 20 hiking trails wind through the gardens and connect to the city’s extensive greenway and the slopes of Mount Wutong Shan.
Address: Luohu District, Shenzhen, China
Discover the Past at a Hakka Village
Journey back in time and explore the unique architectural heritage of the Hakka people. Once prevalent throughout the southern provinces of China, Hakka villages were characterized by their distinctive walled compounds, designed for defensive purposes. While many of these structures have succumbed to urbanization or fallen into disrepair, remnants of this architectural style can still be found.
If time is limited and exploring the countryside isn’t feasible, the Longgang Museum of Hakka Culture offers a convenient alternative. Here, you can admire authentic examples of Hakka-style buildings, providing a glimpse into the history and traditions of this fascinating community.
Embark on a Culinary Adventure: Shenzhen’s Street Food Scene
Shenzhen offers a culinary landscape as diverse as its population. While the city is home to elegant dim sum restaurants like the Shang Palace in the Shangri-La Hotel, a truly authentic experience awaits on the city’s vibrant streets. Immerse yourself in the local culture by sampling the traditional dishes and snacks offered by the countless street food vendors.
Consider joining a guided tour to navigate the city’s culinary hotspots, or venture out on your own to explore the renowned Dongmen Street Food Market, Baishizhou, and Shiuwei. Don’t miss the chance to savor roujiamo at Shiuwei, a delectable bun stuffed with succulent pork belly. From barbecued meat skewers to Jian Bing pancakes and candy-coated fruit, the street food scene caters to every palate. As a coastal city, Shenzhen is particularly renowned for its fresh oysters, locally sourced from nearby bays. The street food experience is one of the best things to do in Shenzhen, China.
Tee Off at World-Class Golf Courses
For golf enthusiasts, Shenzhen presents a premier golfing destination, boasting some of China’s finest courses, including the world’s largest golf complex. Mission Hills Golf Course features an astounding 216 holes spread across 12 championship courses, each meticulously designed by legendary golfers such as Jack Nicklaus and Annika Sörenstam.
Beyond golf, Mission Hills offers a comprehensive recreational experience, with the largest tennis court in Asia, boasting 51 courts, as well as hotels, apartments, parks, and shopping complexes. Located approximately an hour from the city center, Mission Hills is a must-visit for avid golfers. If securing a tee time proves challenging, Shenzhen offers numerous other excellent options, such as the Wind Valley Golf Club in OCT East, featuring two 18-hole courses.
Witness Artistic Creation at Da Fen Oil Painting Village
Enter the world of art replication at Da Fen Oil Painting Village, a unique cultural phenomenon on the list of best things to do in Shenzhen, China. Like many major Chinese cities, Shenzhen hosts an artist’s village, but Da Fen stands out for its impressive scale and history. In its heyday, Da Fen produced over 60 percent of the world’s oil paintings, primarily replicas of famous masterpieces.
While not a quaint artist’s retreat, Da Fen offers a fascinating glimpse into the art reproduction industry. Over 5,000 artists work in varying conditions, from individual studios to factory-like settings. Witness the creation of replicas of renowned works by Rembrandt, Monet, and other masters, often completed in just a few hours. Prices can be surprisingly affordable, with paintings starting as low as $40. Even if you don’t intend to purchase art, a stroll through the village’s dusty streets, lined with reproductions of iconic paintings, is a surreal and captivating experience.
Address: Longgang, Shenzhen, China, 518112
Explore the World in Miniature at Window of the World
Embark on a global journey without leaving Shenzhen at Window of the World, the city’s most popular attraction. This expansive theme park showcases approximately 130 replicas of world-famous sights and landmarks, spread across 120 acres. These are not mere miniatures; some recreations are impressively scaled to two-thirds the size of the originals.
European landmarks take center stage, with meticulously crafted replicas of London’s Houses of Parliament, Paris’s Eiffel Tower, and Rome’s Colosseum. Complementing the replicas are themed streets, international cuisine, and captivating dance performances. The park also features an impressive laser and light show, adding to the overall spectacle. With its amusement park atmosphere, Window of the World is an ideal destination for a fun-filled day with the family.
Address: Nanshan, Shenzhen, China
Immerse Yourself in Theme Park Adventures at OCT East
Discover a world of entertainment and natural beauty at Overseas Chinese Town (OCT), a sprawling complex encompassing nature parks, theme parks, and cultural villages. OCT East features two main theme parks: Knight Valley and Tea Stream Valley. Knight Valley offers thrilling water park adventures, a lush tropical forest, and a glass-bottomed skywalk for panoramic views. Tea Stream Valley provides a more tranquil experience, allowing you to explore the Wetland Garden, savor tea in the Sanzhou Tea Garden, or wander through the Ancient Tea Town.
Shop for Bargains at Luohu Commercial City
Shenzhen’s reputation as a shopping paradise is well-deserved, and Luohu Commercial City stands as a prime example. Catering to diverse shopping needs, this sprawling complex is a haven for bargain hunters. Most day-trippers from Hong Kong flock here in search of great deals. Featuring over 700 shops spread across five floors, the Commercial City offers an intense shopping experience, with salespeople vying for your attention. While you’ll find counterfeit goods here, quality typically corresponds to price. The best buys include clothing, such as tailored suits, but you can also find discounted massages.
Address: Closed Area, Hong Kong
Phone: +86 755 8233 8178
Journey Through Chinese History at Splendid China Folk Village
If you enjoy Window of the World, then Splendid China Folk Village is a must-see. This attraction offers a fascinating journey through Chinese history, art, architecture, and culture. Discover meticulously crafted replicas of iconic landmarks, such as the Great Wall and the Terracotta Warriors, providing a comprehensive overview of China’s rich heritage.
Address: Unnamed Road, GXJQ+FFX 广东省深圳市南山区 邮政编码: 518053 China, 518053
Admire Panoramic Views from Diwang Mansion
Ascend to the 69th floor of Diwang Mansion, one of Shenzhen’s tallest buildings, and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. On a clear day, you can even see the Shenzhen-Hong Kong border. The Meridian View Centre offers telescopes for detailed observation of the city streets below. Shenzhen’s skyline is dotted with impressive skyscrapers, including the Ping An International Finance Center, KK100, and the China Resources Headquarters.
Address: XX6Q+9F2, Chang Ping Da Dao, Dong Guan Shi, Guang Dong Sheng, China, 523560
Delve into Local History at the Shenzhen Museum
While Shenzhen is renowned for its modern dynamism, the Shenzhen Museum offers a valuable glimpse into the region’s rich history. The museum provides a detailed timeline of events, from ancient times to the present-day boom, allowing visitors to understand the city’s cultural evolution. Permanent exhibitions showcase art and calligraphy, as well as different eras of Shenzhen’s past.
Address: Shen Zhen Bo Wu Guan, 广东省深圳市福田区 邮政编码: 518027 China, 518027
These are just a few of the many best things to do in Shenzhen, China. This vibrant metropolis offers a captivating blend of modernity and tradition, natural beauty and urban excitement, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
