Shenzhen

Shenzhen, a modern city blending prosperity with Chinese lifestyle

When talking about a city where I, mr.hotsia, feel rapid change and full of energy of modern China, Shenzhen definitely ranks at the top. This city is located in Guangdong Province, adjacent to Hong Kong Island. It is a special economic zone designed to be a true partner city with Hong Kong. Traveling from Hong Kong to Shenzhen is very convenient. There are six border crossings that facilitate travel and trade, whether through Lok Ma Chau or Lo Wu, which I often use because they are convenient and fast.

Upon entering Shenzhen, the first impression I, mr.hotsia, get is the modernity of a big city filled with skyscrapers, metro trains, and famous electronics markets, especially mobile phones and various gadgets that you can buy at amazing prices. It's no surprise why Shenzhen has become the number one import-export hub among the seven major regions in China.

Must-visit attractions in Shenzhen

When it comes to places I, mr.hotsia, was most impressed by, I must mentionWindow of The WorldAn amusement park that replicates famous world landmarks all in one place. You can tour the world in a single day, from the Eiffel Tower at a 1:3 scale, the Egyptian pyramids, India's Taj Mahal, to the Grand Canyon in America. I visited from evening until night and saw an outdoor stage show featuring Chinese and global cultural stories, with hundreds of dancers and beautiful fireworks. The show starts around 9:00 PM. Tickets cost about 700 baht, worth it for the experience I had.

Another spot I recommend isSplendid China & Chinese Folk Culture VillageLocated not far from Hua Qiao Cheng station, here you can see a replica of the Great Wall of China, Qin Shi Huang's Terracotta Warriors, and homes of over 50 Chinese ethnic groups such as the Miao and Mongols. I like this place because it offers deep insight into the lifestyles, beliefs, languages, and foods of various Chinese ethnic groups. Admission is about 600 baht, a reasonable price for the knowledge gained.

For amusement park lovers like me, mr.hotsia, you must not missHappy Valley Theme ParkWhich is even bigger than Hong Kong Disneyland. It features roller coasters, a magic castle, a water park, and live shows throughout the day and night. During holidays, many Chinese tourists visit, making the atmosphere very lively. Shi Jie Zhi Chuang metro station is only 500 meters away, very convenient.

For those interested in military history, I recommend visitingMinsk WorldAn old Soviet aircraft carrier converted into an amusement park and military museum, located at Dapeng Bay. You can take bus lines 103, 202, 205, or 430, or a taxi from Lo Hu. Open from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM. Admission is about 500 baht. It's an experience I have never seen anywhere else.

Food and markets in Shenzhen that I, mr.hotsia, must share

Talking about Shenzhen without mentioning food is impossible. The market atmosphere here is quite modern and diverse. I, mr.hotsia, recommend strolling through small markets that offer both food and goods, such as Nan Ning Market, which is like a small flea market selling everything from fresh pork, clothes, to electronics. If you want to get to know local food and the lifestyle of the locals, these markets let you experience the genuine side of Chinese people rarely seen.

Additionally, I tried fried chicken atZhengxin Chicken Steak (正新鸡排)A popular fried chicken in Shenzhen. Large pieces with rich flavor, crispy outside and tender inside, a great snack for travelers like me.

If you want to experience traditional Chinese food that is extraordinary, you must try “Beggar’s Chicken”Watch how it's made and taste it with me hereThis style of roasting chicken takes a long time and involves wrapping in clay, making the meat very tender and fragrant. It's a dish I, mr.hotsia, highly recommend if you visit this area.

Travel and connections to nearby cities

Shenzhen is a great starting point for traveling to other cities in Hunan and Guangdong provinces, such as Zhangjiajie or Changsha, which I have written about inChangsha city articleandanother article about ChangshaTraveling from Shenzhen by high-speed train to these cities is convenient and fast, making your southern journey more fun and diverse.

As I, mr.hotsia, have mentioned, traveling from Hong Kong to Shenzhen is extremely convenient with six main border crossings that facilitate both travelers and merchants moving goods easily, making Shenzhen a bustling economic city day and night.

Summary of impressions from mr.hotsia

For me, Shenzhen is not just a special economic zone full of modernity but a city that perfectly blends the lifestyle of new-generation Chinese with traditional culture. Whether walking through world landmark replicas at Window of The World or learning about ethnic cultures at Splendid China, every time I come here I see the locals' efforts to develop the city while preserving the authentic Chinese atmosphere. I want everyone to experience this atmosphere at least once.

For those planning to visit Shenzhen, I, mr.hotsia, recommend allowing plenty of time for travel and sightseeing because there is so much to discover here, including food, markets, and exciting attractions.