What to Do in Shenzhen

Shenzhen isn't about ancient temples — it's about the future being built right now. The world's largest electronics market, a village that produces 60% of all oil paintings, China's second-tallest building, and an art district in a former factory. Here are the things worth your time.

Must-See Attractions

1. Huaqiangbei (华强北) → Read more

The world's largest electronics market — a 1 km stretch of multistory malls selling every component, gadget, and drone imaginable. If it has a circuit board, Huaqiangbei sells it.

🕐 10:00–21:00 | 💰 Free to browse | 📍 Metro: Huaqiang Road (Line 1/2/3/7)

2. Ping An Finance Centre (平安金融中心) → Read more

China's second-tallest building at 599 meters. The observation deck on the 116th floor gives you 360° views across Shenzhen and into Hong Kong on clear days.

🕐 10:00–21:00 | 💰 ¥200 | 📍 Metro: Shopping Park (Line 1)

3. Dafen Oil Painting Village (大芬油画村) → Read more

A village that produces 5 million oil paintings a year — many sold on Amazon as "hand-painted originals." Walk through narrow alleys where artists copy Van Gogh and paint original work side by side.

🕐 Always open | 💰 Free | 📍 Metro: Dafen (Line 3)

4. OCT Loft (华侨城创意文化园) → Read more

Shenzhen's art district — a former factory complex turned creative hub with galleries, design shops, craft coffee, and street art. The closest thing Shenzhen has to 798 Art District in Beijing.

🕐 Always open | 💰 Free | 📍 Metro: Qiaocheng East (Line 1)

5. Lianhuashan Park (莲花山公园) → Read more

Climb to the bronze Deng Xiaoping statue for the best free skyline view in Shenzhen — the city he put on the map. The park itself is a locals' favorite for morning tai chi and kite flying.

🕐 6:00–22:30 | 💰 Free | 📍 Metro: Lianhua West (Line 2/9)

6. Window of the World (世界之窗) → Read more

A theme park with 130 miniature world landmarks — a 1/3 scale Eiffel Tower, Taj Mahal, and Grand Canyon. Some find it cheesy, some love it. It's undeniably unique.

🕐 9:00–22:30 | 💰 ¥220 | 📍 Metro: Window of the World (Line 1/2)