Introduction
Located in Guangdong province, Shenzhen is one of the most vibrant cities in China and is the perfect destination for an exciting travel experience. From the city’s unique cuisine to its pristine beaches and picturesque mountains, there are plenty of things to do in Shenzhen that will satisfy every kind of traveler.
This article will cover some of Shenzhen’s best activities and attractions and provide valuable tips and recommendations.
Overview of Shenzhen
Shenzhen is an important city in southern China’s Guangdong Province that has become a world-renowned tourist destination. It is known for its stunning landscapes and subtropical climate, and the city offers locals and visitors the chance to explore a vibrant and multifaceted metropolis.
Whether visiting Shenzhen for business or pleasure, you will find plenty of things to do and places to explore. Take the city’s modern skyline from one of its many towering skyscrapers, or visit its numerous cultural sites and gardens. Shop till you drop at unique boutiques, modern malls, and lively markets, or enjoy great food from some of China’s best chefs. Enjoy all these fun leisure activities and attractions with family, friends, or even solo.
Ready to plan your next trip? Keep reading to learn more about all the fantastic things there are to do in Shenzhen!
Shopping
Shopping in Shenzhen is an excellent opportunity to get unique items from this vibrant city. From electronics and clothing to art and trinkets, you can find almost anything in the shopping centers and markets. Both tourist-oriented stores offer items at a discount or in bulk or traditional stores.
No matter what you are looking for, Shenzhen’s shopping scene has something for everyone:
Dongmen Pedestrian Street
Dongmen Pedestrian Street is one of the most well-known shopping spots in Shenzhen. Located in Luohu District, this commercial street stretches for about 700 meters and is packed with over 500 types of trendy boutiques, eateries, and entertainment outlets. As an ideal shopping paradise for tourists and locals alike, shopaholics can find just about anything here, from daily necessities to the latest fashion trends. In addition, it has been said that the prices here are even lower than in other parts of China due to its prime location; it is only 3 minutes away from the Lo Wu border with Hong Kong.
The pedestrian street offers a variety of products ranging from jewelry to sportswear, cosmetics to electronics. There are also several small shops specializing in custom tailoring services which can be helpful if looking to find made-to-measure items suited perfectly to individual sizes and shapes.
If you’re feeling hungry while exploring the streets, do not worry! Dongmen Pedestrian Street is also home to numerous mouthwatering eateries selling traditional Chinese fare and international cuisines such as Korean BBQ and Mexican burritos. The bustling atmosphere filled with a mix of unique traditional stores, large branded stalls, and tasty snack stalls creates an exciting contrast between the old and new Shenzhen culture – making it one of the top places for shoppers in China!
Huaqiangbei Electronics Market
The Huaqiangbei Electronics Market officially dates back to 1987, when it was first established as a small electronics market. Since then, the market has become one of Shenzhen’s largest and most popular shopping destinations. However, it is also well known for its many smaller shops, which carry a wide selection of electronics, from simple computer hardware and components to complex high-tech machinery.
The breadth of products available in this market is quite impressive. You can find various consumer and commercial-level electronics here, from personal computers, laptops, and tablets to parts for 3D printers, servers, and telecommunication systems. In addition to all these items, there are also many specialty stores or exclusive high street brands where you can get fashionable clothing pieces or trendy accessories like watches, sunglasses, and other trendy items.
Also located within the Huaqiangbei Electronics Market complex area is an array of electronic components stalls where you can find anything from diodes and LED lights to capacitors or transformers at reasonable prices – making it an ideal destination for DIY enthusiasts who want to build their circuit boards or complete project kits with parts they purchase here. Many suppliers also offer wholesale options if you want significant discounts on bulk purchases.
If your shopping list includes more than just gadgets and electronics components, rest assured that the Huaqiangbei Electronics Market does not disappoint in this regard either – apart from the plethora of electronics stores found here, there are also restaurants serving delicious Chinese dishes ranging from street snacks like noodles to Chinese mains such as hotpot dishes that you can feast on after a successful day out shopping for great deals!
Luohu Commercial City
Located at the heart of the Luohu district, Shenzhen’s well-known Luohu Commercial City is a megamall for shopaholics and bargain hunt enthusiasts. With a sales area of more than 20,000 square meters and five floors offering clothes, electronics, jewelry, and household items, among numerous other product offerings, there is no better place to experience the ultimate shopping experience.
The Luohu Commercial City’s basement level is dedicated to foodies, with its food court providing various local delicacies and fine dining experiences across multiple international cuisines. From seafood hotpots to Indian curries and Mexican fajitas, there is something for everyone. In addition to this plethora of food options, one will find 700 shops offering everything from leather goods to cosmetics featuring world-renowned brands and local products unique only to this mall.
For those looking for pharmaceuticals or medical instruments, there is also a pharmacy on Level 1 that specializes in western medicines and supplements with Chinese and English labels for customers’ convenience. Furthermore, all these shopping experiences are complemented by free Wi-Fi hotspots throughout the mall, making it convenient for shoppers traveling from abroad to stay connected all day long.
In conclusion, with its large-scale product selection and excellent accessibility, such as its proximity to the metro station exit C1 just a 5 minutes walk away, the Luohu Commercial Centre promises an unparalleled SHOPPING EXPERIENCE for all who seek it!
Sightseeing
Shenzhen is a vibrant and beautiful city in Southern China and the perfect destination for sightseeing. From spectacular modern skylines to historical heritage sites, Shenzhen offers something for everyone looking to explore and experience the best of this city.
Here are some great sightseeing attractions in Shenzhen you should not miss:
The Window of the World
The window of the World is a theme park in Shenzhen, China, that features 128 miniature replicas of some of the most famous tourist attractions from around the World. It has grown in popularity since its opening in 1997 and has developed into a major tourist destination. The park is 138 acres and is divided into eight theme areas with replicas ranging from a 1:1 to 1:5 ratio.
At Window of the World, visitors can explore simulated US national parks, cross Japanese suspension bridges, and wander around reproductions of world monuments, such as the Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia or the Eiffel Tower in Paris. The main attractions include a miniature version of Rome’s Colosseum, the Egyptian pyramids and sphinx statues at Giza Plateau, an opera house located on Sydney Harbour (Sydney Opera House,) and a scaled-down replica of St Peter’s Basilica at Vatican City.
Its other notable replicas are India’s Taj Mahal, Russia’s Kremlin Palace Complex & St Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow, China’s Great Wall & Forbidden City, and more prominent sights such as United State’s Grand Canyon National Park & Yosemite National Park.
This theme park provides its visitors with an exciting experience while they explore significant attractions around the globe all within one site!
Splendid China Folk Village
The Splendid China Folk Village is a theme park in Shenzhen, Guangdong, China. It is one of the largest-scale theme parks in the World, covering 4.5 million square meters and incorporating over 100 architectural models of different historical and cultural landmarks located throughout Chinese history and other countries around the World. The park also features live performances of Chinese dances, opera, acrobatics, and puppet & puppet shows from around the World. It was opened on February 19th, 1993, as part of the WorldView Entertainment Expo.
The main attraction at Splendid China Folk Village is its 3D model reproductions that feature up to ninety-five percent accurate reproductions of various Chinese sites, including places such as The Great Wall Of China, The Summer Palace, and even Ancient Buildings such as Confucius Temple or Qing Archaeological Site which were moved to Shenzhen for preservation purposes during the Cultural Revolution. Other attractions include miniature models of famous landmarks from all over the World, like The White House, The Coliseum in Rome, or Japan’s Imperial Palace, among many other places people can enjoy while visiting here.
For guests interested in learning more about Chinese culture and history, there’s no better place than a trip to Splendid China Folk Village, where they can travel hundreds of years back in time while still being able to take pleasure in today’s modern attractions thanks to their specially designed “outdoor museum.” From visiting exhibitions filled with photographs recounting ancient lifestyles to interactive 4D experiences at pop-up immersions zones for children filled with experiences like 9D rides or educational classes about traditional handicrafts making -Splendid China Folk Village offers guests an incredible opportunity to immerse themselves into an educational background coupled with modern-day fun!
Shenzhen Safari Park
Shenzhen Safari Park is located in the south part of Shenzhen and is a great spot to visit if you want an enlightening conservation experience. It is home to various wild and endangered animals, such as lions, tigers, pandas, and elephants. The park also offers education programs about wildlife conservation and sustainability.
Shenzhen Safari Park provides an interactive adventure for adults and plenty of entertainment for children. From the sight of imposing Bengal tigers or friendly dolphins and trained sea otters on show at the oceanarium, there’s something to entertain everyone! Plus, you can enjoy a ride on the park’s boat which circles much of the grounds giving passengers stunning views of all the animals in their natural habitats.
The park also has many themed photography spots enabling visitors to capture beautiful memories with family and friends amidst alluring backgrounds like picturesque gardens or majestic mountainside settings. In addition, visitors can enjoy great food at one of its many restaurants and pick up souvenirs from one of its retail shops.
Whether you have time for a full day’s visit or just an afternoon encounter with nature, Shenzhen Safari Park provides an enjoyable and unforgettable experience that will stay with you forever!
Entertainment
Shenzhen is a vibrant city with many fun things to do. Shenzhen has something for everyone, from entertainment hubs and amusement parks to art and exhibition galleries.
In this article, we cover some of the most popular entertainment spots in Shenzhen – where you can enjoy yourself and have an extraordinary time:
OCT Bay
OCT Bay is a large, ocean-themed park in the Shekou District of Shenzhen, China. Spread over 3.5 square kilometers, it features exciting activities and offers visitors a range of entertainment experiences. For example, a giant Ferris wheel over 50 meters tall is visible from surrounding areas and can be seen rotating against the famous skyline.
It also serves as a great way to take in the skyline of the city’s western side.
The park has several major attractions, including two themed areas – Adventure Island and Joyful Castle. Adventure Island is an action-packed area with more than 30 thrilling rides, such as roller coasters, trampoline experience courses, and even a bungee jump tower! The Joyful Castle area has many more family-friendly experiences, including animal performances, live music shows, children’s museums, and indoor playground rides like bumper cars and flying chairs!
OCT Bay also features other activities like walking paths around the bay and shopping centers filled with souvenirs to take home for friends or family back home. You could also enjoy visiting their world-renowned 809 art district featuring many exciting museums and galleries covering traditional Chinese culture to modern urban art from various eras throughout history. Tourists can even go out to nearby islands via water taxi daily or stay in their 5-star luxury hotels overnight if they want to experience more of what this beautiful oasis has to offer!
He Xiangning Art Museum
He Xiangning Art Museum, located in Shenzhen, China, focuses on modern and contemporary Chinese art. Founded in 1994 by He Xiangning (1878–1962), one of the country’s leading early human rights activists, the museum has become an important center for creative activities and exchanges between the local community and art professionals across China.
The main exhibition galleries are on four floors, showcasing traditional Chinese paintings (porcelain paintings, ink-and-brush landscapes), oil paintings, sculptures, and audio-visual works from home and abroad. In addition to rotating exhibitions from national artist residencies across China every year, there is an impressive collection of over 6500 pieces by renowned Chinese artists. One exciting feature is that many works are interactive installations that invite visitors to explore everyday life in Shenzhen through art.
The museum also hosts guided tours with experienced curators or seminar teachers who introduce visitors to some of the most recent Asian contemporary art expressions seen at He Xiangning Art Museum. Located near Shenzhen East station metro lines 6 and 11, an easy 5 km train ride from downtown Shenzhen this facility has become a sought-after destination for families looking for unique cultural experiences while visiting this vibrant city.
Dameisha Beach
Dameisha Beach is an excellent destination for those looking to enjoy scenic views and fun beach activities in the Shenzhen area. Located in Yantian District, just outside the city, Dameisha Beach is renowned for its spectacular vistas of mountains, blue sky, and blue sea.
You can participate in exciting watersports like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides here. The beach itself is also ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can find a range of facilities along the water’s edge, including:
- Restaurants serving both seafood and local fare;
- Quaint cafes;
- Beach stalls offering snacks, cold drinks, and souvenirs;
- Changing rooms with showers.
The tranquil atmosphere here makes Dameisha Beach an excellent spot for picnicking or watching a breathtaking pink-tinted sunset over the ocean.
Food
Shenzhen has a wide variety of food available for every taste. From local specialties like hotpot and dim sum to international favorites like pizza, burgers, and sushi, you’ll find something to your liking. In addition, many restaurants have outdoor seating, so you can take in the sights and sounds of Shenzhen while you eat.
Let’s take a look at some of the best foods the city has to offer:
Sea World
SeaWorld is located in Shekou Sub-District, Nanshan District, and is a popular attraction for families. The area covers approximately 48 acres of land, with over 160 restaurants, entertainment venues, shopping malls, and a man-made harbor.
The park has multiple theme areas, including Sea Fantasyland and Wild Adventure Land. The park attractions include rides such as the Dragon Fury roller coaster and a dark mystery ride, among many other family-friendly attractions for all ages.
For those looking for a cultural exploration of water-created wonders, the giant aquarium features freshwater and marine life from around the World for guests to see. Also included is the Shell Theater, where visitors can watch entertaining shows or visit one of many animal encounters available throughout the day.
There are plenty of tasty seafood options for dining around Sea World, with many dishes freshly caught from nearby waters!
Dapeng Ancient Town
Dapeng Ancient Town, due to its unique landscape and culture, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Shenzhen. It is an ancient fishing village located at the southeastern end of Shenzhen city and has more than 600 years of history. It is a place where you can find authentic seafood dishes made to local recipes.
Take your time strolling down the quaint streets, admiring the stunning views of vast waterways, stone bridges, and traditional architecture surrounding quaint cobbled lanes. In addition to seafood delicacies, visitors can also find several great restaurants in Dapeng Ancient Town featuring Sichuan and Cantonese cuisine. For those looking for something a bit different, there are tea houses with traditional local cuisines, such as home-cooked beef dishes and fresh Tofu served hot on the street corner.
With its exciting mix of old-world charm and modern cosmopolitan flair, Dapeng Ancient Town has something for everyone!
Dameisha Seafood Street
Located on Dameisha Beach in Yantian District, Dameisha Seafood Street is one of Shenzhen’s most popular dining places. This area has experienced rapid growth in the last two decades and is often called a “food paradise.”
At Dameisha Seafood Street, stalls serve various authentic seafood dishes, such as braised mitten crab, abalone porridge, and deep-fried squid. Many famous restaurants are located here, like Longjing Shrimp Restaurant and White Guli Steamed Fish Restaurant. There are also wide varieties of local snacks available at the food stalls.
A fun way to experience all the flavors this area offers is to rent a small silo boat with your friends and sail through the many food stands. Of course, prices for seafood vary depending on season and market demand; however, you can usually expect an enjoyable time no matter what you eat or how much it costs!