Shenzhen is a major financial and technological hub, known for its rapid development, innovative industries, and impressive skyline. Established as China's first Special Economic Zone in 1980, Shenzhen has transformed from a small fishing village into a thriving city with a population of over 12 million people. Shenzhen is also famous for its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and bustling shopping districts, making it an exciting destination for both business and leisure travelers.
Average Cost of Hotels in Shenzhen
Shenzhen offers a wide range of hotels from budget to luxury. Here is a overview of the cost of hotels in Shenzhen:
- Budget Hotels: These hotels provide basic amenities. The average cost for a budget hotel in Shenzhen ranges from CNY 150 to CNY 300 per night.
- Mid-range Hotels: These hotels offer a balance between affordability and comfort. The average cost for a mid-range hotel in Shenzhen ranges from CNY 300 to CNY 800 per night.
- Luxury Hotels: These hotels provide top-notch services, facilities, and amenities. The average cost for a luxury hotel in Shenzhen ranges from CNY 800 to CNY 2,500 per night.
Must-Visit Attractions for First-Time Visitors
Shenzhen offers various attractions for first-time visitors. Here are 5 must-visit attractions in Shenzhen for first-time visitors:
- Window of the World: This theme park is a fantastic place to start your Shenzhen adventure. It features over 130 miniature replicas of famous landmarks from around the world, including the Eiffel Tower, the Pyramids of Egypt, and the Statue of Liberty.
- Splendid China Folk Village: This cultural attraction combines two popular theme parks – Splendid China and China Folk Culture Village. It showcases the diverse history, architecture, and customs of China's 56 ethnic groups.
- Shenzhen Happy Valley: Shenzhen Happy Valley is a vibrant and exciting amusement park located in Shenzhen, China. Covering an area of 350,000 square meters, this popular attraction offers a wide range of thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and fun activities for visitors of all ages.
- Shenzhen Museum: For those interested in learning about the history of Shenzhen and its rapid development, the Shenzhen Museum is a must-visit. The museum features various exhibits on the city's history, culture, and natural environment.
- Shenzhen Safari Park: Shenzhen Safari Park is a unique wildlife attraction, which offers visitors an exciting opportunity to explore and interact with a diverse range of animals from around the world. The park has more than 300 species of animals, including rare and endangered species such as pandas, tigers, and giraffes.
Better to Know Before Visiting Shenzhen
- Visa requirements: Before visiting Shenzhen, check if you need a visa to enter China. Some nationalities can get a visa on arrival, while others need to apply for a visa in advance. There is also a 5-day visa-free policy for certain nationalities visiting the Shenzhen area.
- Language: Mandarin is the official language in Shenzhen, and the local dialect is Cantonese. English is not widely spoken, so it's helpful to learn some basic Chinese phrases or have a translation app handy.
- Currency: The currency used in Shenzhen is the Chinese Yuan (CNY or RMB). It's a good idea to have some cash on hand, as not all places accept credit cards. You can exchange money at the airport, banks, or hotels.
- Transportation: Shenzhen has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, taxis, and a metro system. The metro is the most convenient way to travel around the city, and it's relatively inexpensive.
- Internet access: Free Wi-Fi is not widely available in Shenzhen, so it's a good idea to get esim, a local SIM card or rent a portable Wi-Fi device for internet access. You can purchase a SIM card at the airport or at local mobile phone shops.
Transportation in Shenzhen
Shenzhen has an extensive public transportation network that includes buses, taxis, and a modern metro system. The Shenzhen Metro currently has eight lines serving 166 stations. which is the most convenient and efficient way to get around the city.
The main airport in Shenzhen is the Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport, which is one of the busiest airports in China. The airport is a hub for numerous airlines and has a modern terminal building with a variety of passenger amenities.
The city's main train station is the Shenzhen Railway Station. Other important train stations in Shenzhen include Shenzhen North Railway Station and Futian Railway Station, both of which are stops on the Guangzhou–Shenzhen–Hong Kong Express Rail Link.
What to Eat in Shenzhen
- Dim Sum: This is a traditional Cantonese dish that is popular in Shenzhen. It consists of a variety of small, bite-sized portions of food served in small steamer baskets or on small plates.
- Shenzhen Hot Pot: Hot pot is a popular dish in Shenzhen. It consists of a simmering pot of soup stock at the center of the dining table, and all raw ingredients placed beside the pot, so people can cook whatever they like in the broth.
- Shenzhen Barbecue: Shenzhen barbecue is a must-try. It is a popular street food where you can choose from a variety of meats and vegetables that are skewered and grilled right in front of you.
- Seafood: Shenzhen is a coastal city, so seafood is a must-try. You can find a variety of seafood dishes, including steamed fish, shrimp, crab, and more.
- Roast Goose: This is a traditional Cantonese dish that is very popular in Shenzhen. The goose is marinated and then roasted to perfection, resulting in a crispy skin and tender meat.
Best Time to Visit Shenzhen
The best time to visit Shenzhen is from October to December when the weather is cool, dry, and comfortable. During these months, the temperatures range from 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Additionally, there are various festivals and events taking place during this time, such as the Shenzhen International Cultural Industry Fair and the Shenzhen Fringe Festival.
Average Temperature
• January to March: 19.09°C during the day, 15.74°C at night
• April to June: 27.61°C during the day, 24.69°C at night
• July to September: 30.43°C during the day, 27.3°C at night
• October to December: 23.58°C during the day, 19.92°C at night