Travel around Shenzhen with Bobby
Day 1Touching Down in the City of Innovation
As soon as I landed in Shenzhen, the city’s modern skyline greeted me with towering skyscrapers shimmering in the sunlight. After checking into my hotel, Fraser Suites Shenzhen, a sleek and family-friendly place located in Futian District, I quickly freshened up and headed out. My first stop was Huaqiangbei Electronics Market, the tech paradise I’d been eager to explore. Wandering through the stalls and shops, I was in awe of the sheer variety of gadgets, from cutting-edge smartphones to quirky electronic toys. The buzzing energy of the market was contagious, and I ended up buying a few tech souvenirs.
Later that afternoon, I took the metro—Shenzhen’s metro system is impressively clean and efficient—towards Window of the World. This themed park is like a mini world tour, with replicas of the Eiffel Tower, the Pyramids, and other global landmarks. As the sun set, I marveled at the beautifully lit miniatures and snapped dozens of photos.
For dinner, I indulged in authentic Cantonese cuisine at Shang Garden, savoring delicious dim sum and crispy roast duck. The night ended with a relaxed walk along Civic Center Plaza, where the futuristic lights of the city twinkled against the night sky.
If you're into tech, Huaqiangbei is a must-visit. Just be prepared for the sensory overload—it’s easy to get lost in the excitement! The metro system here is your best friend; it's fast, reliable, and gets you anywhere in the city without a hitch.
Day 2A Deep Dive into Chinese Culture
Waking up to the vibrant energy of Shenzhen, I knew today was all about diving into the city’s rich cultural side. My first stop was Splendid China Folk Village, a sprawling park that beautifully showcases China’s diverse history and traditions. Walking through the different regions of China in miniature form was fascinating, and I particularly enjoyed the live cultural performances—colorful, energetic, and deeply rooted in tradition.
After a quick lunch at a local spot near the park, I headed over to Lianhua Mountain Park, a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. Climbing up to the peak rewarded me with panoramic views of the entire city. As a bonus, I visited the statue of Deng Xiaoping, the legendary leader who played a major role in making Shenzhen the innovative hub it is today.
Dinner tonight was at The Terrace, located in Sea World. This area is brimming with international restaurants, bars, and live music venues. I enjoyed a Thai meal and sipped on cocktails while listening to live music—a perfect end to a culturally rich day.
I had lunch at a small local spot near Splendid China Folk Village, and while the food was simple, it was tasty and filling. Dinner at The Terrace was a highlight with its lively atmosphere and delicious Thai dishes.
Food
Returning to Fraser Suites Shenzhen after a day of cultural exploration was refreshing. The hotel’s facilities, including the gym and pool, added extra comfort to the stay.
Accomodation
Visiting Splendid China Folk Village and hiking Lianhua Mountain offered a perfect mix of culture and nature. Both places were well worth the time and gave me a deeper insight into China’s history and Shenzhen’s modern growth.
Activity
If you’re into culture and history, don’t miss Splendid China Folk Village. Lianhua Mountain Park is a great spot to relax and take in the city’s skyline, but be prepared for a bit of a hike to reach the top!
Day 3Beachside Bliss and Urban Adventures
Today, I decided to escape the urban jungle and head for some beachside bliss. I took a short taxi ride to Dameisha Beach, one of Shenzhen’s most famous coastal spots. The sun was shining, and the beach was lively with families, tourists, and locals enjoying the waves. After swimming in the warm waters of the South China Sea, I lounged on the soft sand, soaking up the sun and enjoying a much-needed break from the fast pace of city life.
By mid-afternoon, I was back in the city, this time to explore OCT Loft Creative Culture Park. This artsy district is home to trendy cafés, art galleries, and boutiques, and it felt like a different side of Shenzhen—quiet, cool, and very creative. I spent hours wandering through art exhibits, sipping coffee in a bohemian café, and browsing through unique local crafts.
For dinner, I treated myself to a seafood feast at Shark, a popular spot known for its fresh seafood and chic atmosphere. Oysters, crab, and a glass of white wine—absolute perfection. The night ended with a quiet walk through the illuminated streets of Shenzhen Bay.
Lunch at a beachside café near Dameisha Beach was light and refreshing, while dinner at Shark was a seafood lover’s dream. The fresh oysters and crab were unforgettable.
Food
After a day at the beach and the artsy OCT Loft, returning to the comfort of Fraser Suites was a great way to unwind. The staff remained attentive, and the room was a peaceful retreat.
Accomodation
A relaxing day at Dameisha Beach, followed by a creative afternoon in OCT Loft, was a great balance. Both places showed different sides of Shenzhen—natural beauty and artistic expression.
Activity
Dameisha Beach is great if you’re craving some sun and sea, but try to go early to beat the crowds. OCT Loft is perfect for those who enjoy artsy, laid-back vibes—don’t skip it!
Day 4 The Final Exploration – A Perfect Mix of Nature and City
For my final day in Shenzhen, I wanted to strike a balance between nature and urban exploration. I started the day by taking the metro to Wutong Mountain, the highest peak in the city. The hike was challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views of both the city and the surrounding natural beauty. It was a perfect way to start the day, away from the city’s noise, surrounded by nature.
After descending the mountain, I made my way to Shenzhen Museum to delve deeper into the city’s incredible transformation from a small fishing village to a global tech hub. The museum was well-curated, providing fascinating insights into the city’s rapid development. Feeling inspired by Shenzhen’s history, I then headed to MixC World, one of the city’s top luxury shopping destinations. Even if you’re not in the mood to shop, it’s worth visiting for the high-end stores and the impressive architecture.
My last dinner in Shenzhen was at Elba, an Italian restaurant in the St. Regis Shenzhen. Dining on exquisite pasta with a view of the twinkling city lights was the perfect farewell to this dynamic city.
My final meal at Elba in the St. Regis Shenzhen was an outstanding experience. The pasta was exquisite, and the atmosphere, with views of the city, was the perfect way to end the trip.
Food
The last night at Fraser Suites felt like a home away from home. The room's comfort and the hotel’s prime location made it easy to explore on my final day.
Accomodation
Hiking Wutong Mountain and exploring Shenzhen Museum were the perfect ways to wrap up the trip. The mountain offered breathtaking views, while the museum provided valuable insights into Shenzhen’s transformation.
Activity
Wutong Mountain is a must if you’re up for a challenge and want some stunning views. End your trip with a visit to MixC World—it’s the perfect way to experience Shenzhen’s luxurious side.
Summary of My Trip
During my 4-day trip to Shenzhen, I was able to experience the perfect blend of modern innovation, cultural richness, and natural beauty. On the first day, I dove straight into the city’s tech world by visiting Huaqiangbei Electronics Market and then explored global landmarks in miniature at Window of the World. Day two took me deeper into Chinese culture with a visit to Splendid China Folk Village and a peaceful hike up Lianhua Mountain, offering stunning views of the city.
Day three was a mix of beach relaxation and creative exploration. I spent the morning at Dameisha Beach, soaking up the sun, and later enjoyed the artsy vibe of OCT Loft. Finally, on day four, I hiked Wutong Mountain, taking in breathtaking natural views before heading to Shenzhen Museum to understand the city’s rapid development. Throughout the trip, the food was outstanding—from Cantonese cuisine to fresh seafood—and staying at Fraser Suites provided the perfect comfortable base. Shenzhen truly impressed me with its diversity and dynamic energy.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Shenzhen was an eye-opener for me in so many ways. I expected a modern city, but what I found was a place that beautifully balances cutting-edge technology with rich cultural heritage. The sheer energy of Huaqiangbei blew me away, and as a tech enthusiast, it felt like being in a dream. But what truly stood out was how easily I could switch gears from the bustling electronics markets to the peaceful Lianhua Mountain Park or the artistic vibes of OCT Loft. The food scene was also impressive, from authentic Cantonese dishes to fresh seafood at Shark, it was a culinary adventure.
My first meal at Shang Garden was a delight. The dim sum and roast duck were cooked to perfection, reflecting authentic Cantonese flavors. It was a bit pricey but worth it for the quality.
Food
Staying at Fraser Suites Shenzhen was an excellent choice. The spacious room, modern amenities, and friendly staff made for a comfortable stay, especially after a long day of exploring.
Accomodation
Exploring Huaqiangbei Electronics Market and Window of the World was fascinating. The tech market was overwhelming in the best way, and the themed park was a fun way to see miniatures of global landmarks.
Activity