Center Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, eat, see and stay in Center, Shenzhen with our comprehensive tour guide. Plan your trip now!


Introduction to Center

Center is a district located in the heart of Shenzhen in the Pearl River Delta area of Guangdong Province, South China. It is known for its bustling commercial district and skyscrapers. The district has a population of over 600,000 people, and it is the political, economic, and cultural center of the city.

List of Places to Visit in Center

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Shenzhen Museum: The museum features exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Shenzhen, including the city’s transformation from a fishing village to a modern metropolis.
  • Shenzhen Concert Hall: A major cultural hub in Center, the concert hall hosts symphonies, operas, and music festivals all year round.
  • Huaqiangbei Commercial Street: A popular commercial center with traditional shops selling clothing, electronics, and other consumer goods.

Natural Attractions of Center: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lianhuashan Park: A popular park in Center with scenic views of the city and the reservoir.
  • Shenzhen Central Park: Covering an area of 250,000 square meters, this green haven in the city center features gardens, lakes, and recreational facilities.
  • Shenzhen Reservoir: A picturesque artificial lake surrounded by mountains, ideal for boating, picnics, and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Center

  • Nanshan Open Park Trail: A beautiful hiking trail that winds through the hills of Nanshan, offering scenic views of the city and the sea.
  • Central Park Bike Trail: A 10-km trail for cyclists and joggers that circles around the park.

Best Things to Do in Center: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking along the Shenzhen Bay: Experience stunning views of the city skyline while paddling along the bay.
  • Night Cruise on Shenzhen River: Take a relaxing cruise to see the city’s illuminated landmarks at night.
  • Visit Splendid China Folk Village: Explore Chinese culture and history in miniature, with exhibits that showcase miniature replicas of China’s most famous landmarks from the Great Wall to the Forbidden City.

Week-Long Itinerary for Center

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Shenzhen Museum, Nanshan Open Park, and Lianhuashan Park
Day 2 Go shopping in Huaqiangbei, and explore Central Park
Day 3 Take a day trip to Splendid China Folk Village and enjoy an evening out in Huaqiangbei
Day 4 Take a night cruise along Shenzhen River
Day 5 Visit Shenzhen Concert Hall and Central Park Bike Trail
Day 6 Experience kayaking on Shenzhen Bay
Day 7 Check out of your hotel and head to your next destination

Food and Drink Scene of Center

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hakka Fried Rice: This is a traditional dish that features rice, minced pork or chicken, and assorted vegetables such as carrots, peas, and onion.
  • Hot Pot: A popular and delicious Chinese-style hot pot where diners cook their own meat, vegetables, and seafood in a shared pot of boiling soup.
  • Seafood: Center has some of the freshest and most delicious seafood restaurants in Shenzhen, with a variety of fish, crab, and other seafood dishes available.

Local Beverages

  • Tea: China is known for its high-quality tea, and Shenzhen is no exception. Try a cup of fragrant jasmine tea or famous Da Hong Pao tea.
  • Shenzhen Craft Beer: The city has a growing craft beer scene, with several local breweries offering unique and tasty options.

Where to Stay in Center: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Grand Hyatt Shenzhen: A luxurious 5-star hotel located in the business district, offering stunning city views and first-class amenities.
  • Crowne Plaza Shenzhen: A modern and spacious 4-star hotel, with a central location and excellent facilities for business and leisure travelers.
  • Marriott Executive Apartments: Ideal for longer stays, these serviced apartments offer comfort, convenience, and modern amenities.

What to Buy in Center: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Electronics: Huaqiangbei is known as the “Silicon Valley of China” and is the best place to buy electronics and gadgets at a bargain price.
  • Tea and Tea Accessories: Shenzhen has some of the best tea shops in China, offering a wide variety of teas and tea accessories.
  • Local Snacks: Try some of the popular snacks from Shenzhen, such as spicy dried tofu, shrimp chips, and dried fruit.

Local Culture and Customs of Center

  • Language: Mandarin is the official language of China, but Cantonese is also widely spoken in the Guangdong province, including Shenzhen.
  • Etiquette: In Chinese culture, it is customary to greet people with a handshake or bow, and it is polite to say “thank you” after receiving a gift or service.
  • Currency: The official currency of China is the Yuan Renminbi (CNY).

Best Time to Visit Center

The best time to visit Center is from March to May and September to November when the weather is mild with comfortable temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts in Center

Do:

  • Learn basic Mandarin or Cantonese phrases to communicate with the locals.
  • Try the local cuisine and eat like a local.
  • Carry a map or guidebook to get around the city.

Don’t:

  • Don’t disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Avoid political discussions and criticism of the Chinese government.
  • Don’t forget to haggle when shopping.

Safety and Health

Safety in Center

Shenzhen, including the Center district, is generally safe and has a low crime rate. However, travelers should take basic precautions like avoiding dark alleys at night and keeping an eye on their belongings in crowded areas.

Health in Center

The tap water in Shenzhen is not safe to drink. It is recommended to purchase bottled water from reputable stores and restaurants. Travelers should also take precautions against air pollution, especially during the summer months.

Getting to Center: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Center

  • Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport: Located about 35 km from Center and is the main airport serving Shenzhen.

Bus Stations Near Center

  • Shenzhen North Bus Station: This is the main bus station in the city and is located about 20 km from Center.

Other Options

  • Metro: Shenzhen has an extensive metro system, with several lines covering most parts of the city.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Shenzhen, and fares are relatively cheap.

How to Get Around in Center

The best way to get around Center is by metro or taxi. The metro system is efficient and easy to use, and the taxi fares are affordable.

Where to Go Next from Center: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Hong Kong: Just across the border from Shenzhen, Hong Kong is a bustling metropolis and a popular tourist destination.
  • Guangzhou: The capital city of Guangdong province, Guangzhou is known for its rich history and culture, and it’s only a few hours away by train.

Conclusion

Center, Shenzhen is a vibrant and fast-paced district, with a rich cultural heritage and many attractions to explore. With our comprehensive guide, you can plan your trip and make the most of your time in this dynamic city. From world-class shopping and gastronomy to natural beauty and cultural landmarks, there is something for everyone in Center.

View of Luohu, Futian, and Hong Kong's New Territories from Shun Hing Square View of Luohu, Futian, and Hong Kong's New Territories from Shun Hing Square Looking straight down from Ping An Finance Centre Looking straight down from Ping An Finance Centre Deng Xiaoping striding above the city in Lianhuashan Park Deng Xiaoping striding above the city in Lianhuashan Park Lake of the Immortals Botanical Gardens Lake of the Immortals Botanical Gardens Near the peak of Wutong Mountain Near the peak of Wutong Mountain Huaqiang Electronics World Huaqiang Electronics World