Is it 2025 or 2050? Perhaps over in China’s glittering tech hub, it could very well feel like both. Walking the streets of Shenzhen, it’s hard to imagine how the city was a mere fishing village just over 40 years ago. Since its establishment as a Special Economic Zone, it has only been on the up and up, rising in station as an industrial and technology capital—and it’s got the chops to show for it.
Whilst the architectural marvels of Shenzhen’s financial district will no doubt greet you, there’s a whole other universe to glean when strolling through the multitude of sprawling green parks, which are so well integrated into the fabric of the city. Whilst the term ‘garden city’ might be reserved for one that is much closer to home, there’s a sense that things have been bristled to perfection here. All to sustain its ecology, and protect the natural spaces that mean most to them. To push the envelope further, any of its electrically-powered public modes of transportation will serve as a reminder of just how much one cosmo can do if they try hard enough.
Not to say that the city’s culture has been swept out of this spotless hub. Between its financial centres and swanky designer malls, you’ll find the beating heart of its city. Like in a cluster of old factory buildings that have been converted into spaces for its emerging creatives, or a charming art village that is home to the most oil paintings in the world. Here, a guide to exploring Shenzhen, whether you’re on a day trip from Hong Kong, or staying in the city for a few days.
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Nantou Ancient City
Shenzhen’s Nanshan district hides away this historical gem, once the city’s maritime, political, economic and cultural stronghold. Now a charming area made up of traditional buildings, it has since been revitalised with a vibrant mix of art exhibition spaces, small boutiques, record stores and creative pop-ups.
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Conrad Shenzhen
Right in the heart of the Qianhai financial district, Conrad Shenzhen has taken root. Rightfully a museum in itself with over 100 works of art and design pieces within its walls, this luxury property is an elegant address that evokes an air of tranquil once you step beyond its doors—perfect for the considered traveller.
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MixC World
An eclectic mix of boutique shops and designer concept stores, MixC World is where the city’s creative youth come to play. Between a majestic Gentle Monster Haus Nowhere that draws eyes for its bold exhibition pieces to playful, kitschy shops like Tagi, there’s plenty to admire (and shop!) in this urban gem.
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Shenzhen Bay Park
Bordered by the twinkling blue and an unending line of greenery, the city reminds you that Shenzhen is a coastal city after all. Bike along the Shenzhen Bay Park stretch for stunning sunset views that is sure to set the mood for a romantic evening out.
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Dafen Oil Painting Village
The artists here continue to uphold a treasured art form, one even more pertinent in today’s world of digital art. A quaint art village that is marked by its vivacious, streaking hues and portraits of famous people, these narrow lanes and hidden alleyways continue to see brush strokes being put to canvas—unveiling a pocket universe into a forgotten lifetime of tangible, handmade art.
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Museum of Contemporary Art & Urban Planning
You’ll leave this architectural gem in awe—after witnessing the stunning sculpture that centres the Museum of Contemporary Art & Urban Planning. It’s also a unique way of learning about the city’s history, as technologically-forward installations educate its viewers on how Shenzhen transformed into the futuristic hub it is today.
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Muji Hotel Shenzhen
Beyond just its cult status, Muji Hotel Shenzhen also earns its winnings from its prime location. Apart from being right next to the city’s swanky Upper Hills complex—of top-notch cafes, international designer boutiques and entire car showrooms—it’s also a stone’s throw away from some of the city’s most peaceful getaways, like Lianhuashan Park or Bijia Hill Park.
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OCT Loft
A cluster of old manufacturing factories, now reformed as one of the city’s most creative hotspots. One could spend hours in its unique bookshops, art galleries, creative marketplaces and lifestyle concept stores, and then spend an equal amount of time sipping on a delicious pour-over at one of its many coffee spots here.
