Asia, China, Shenzhen 
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Asia, China, Shenzhen
Ever been tempted to head to the other side? Shenzhen actually has a lot of offer. Think plenty of street snacks, parks, art exhibitions, book stores, and of course, massage parlours and nail salons. Read on for the highlights and must-sees.
New Timer
One of the newest attractions in recent years, this complex is a giant resort that encompasses a scenic town, a temple, several luxury hotels, a hot spring spa, and a theme park. One of the areas include the Tea Stream Valley, a European-inspired town that is built around a lake that’s perfect for photo-ops and a romantic train ride.
Da Mei Sha, Yantian Qu, (+86)755-25031119.
UpperHills | 深業上城
One of the newest and largest urban complexes in Shenzhen, Upper Hills is the ultimate destination for shopping and dining. Lined with Instagram-worthy shops like Hey Cha (a popular local tea chain), K.Strawberry (curated lifestyle store) and the Muji flagship store and hotel, this is a must see if you’re in town.
5001 Huanggang Road, Futian Qu
Old Timer
If you’re an aspiring globetrotter, you can get a preview of all the biggest attractions and famous landmarks all in one place at Shenzhen’s Window of the World – all in miniature form, and some as tall as a person. After snapping photos at the pyramids of Egypt visiting Paris’ Eiffel Tower all in one day, you can stop to enjoy the cultural performances before heading out.
9037 Shennan Road, Nanshan Qu, +86-0755-26608000.
Shop here
Dong Men Pedestrian Street
For those seeking a bargain, look no further than Dong Men. The shopping area is not only home to multiple, tightly-packed shopping complexes selling everything from apparel and accessories to pirated DVDs and phone cases, but also countless nail and hair salons. If you get tired of bargain-hunting, you can also grab a bite at the street food stores or even watch a flick in Chinese.
Jiefang Road, Luohu Qu.
If you want to know where everyone’s at on weekends, COCO Park is the place to go. Basically one giant lifestyle complex, COCO Park houses over 200 international and local brands, a myriad of modern restaurants, and an alfresco bar street and plenty of open air spaces for visitors to relax in. Want to catch the latest flick? Their cinema also has you covered.
268 Fuhua 3rd Road, Futian Qu, +86-755-8202-1111
Get artsy here
A neighbor of the OCT East resort, OCT Loft was once a factory compound but now houses art and design studios, as well as galleries, restaurants, and lifestyle stores. It is always worth a visit whenever you’re in town because of the changing local and international art exhibitions, occasional craft markets, and relaxing atmosphere. Grab a book and hang for the day!
En Ping Street, Overseas Chinese Town, Nanshan Qu, (+86) 755-26915100.
Eat here
Leyuan Lu Seafood Street
As a coastal town, you can expect plenty of delicious seafood in Shenzhen. But instead of wasting your time hunting for what may seem like the best restaurant, just head straight to Leyuan Road for dozens of picks, including boat-fresh, affordable catch-of-the-day like crabs, abalone and oysters. All of which are made to order – and to your specifications.
Leyuan Road, Luohu Qu.
Chaotai Beef Shop (潮泰牛肉店)
For hot pot, you can rely on Chaotai for beef balls, fresh cuts of beef, and a flavourful soup base. The chain was first established in 1992, and has since grown to eight outlets in Shenzhen thanks to its affordable prices. Just don’t expect first-class service, and you’ll be treated to a belly-warming meal.
1/F, Intersection of Tai Ran Liu Road and Tai Ran Qi Road, Chegongmiao, Futian Qu, (+86) 755-83421488.
Drink here
Taking Chinese social media by storm, Hey Tea is a caffeinated chain with over 50 branches all over the country – and 18 of these are in Shenzhen. At one point, queues were so long that wait times could stretch to as long as four hours. Nevertheless, Hey Tea’s fruit teas and modern decor has won over discerning caffeine finds, and is still a go-to for visiting and local millennials. Signature items include fresh cheese foam covered tea and seasonal fresh fruit teas.
1234 Space, Laojie MTR station, Dongmen, Luohu Qu.
Around the block
Away from the city center is the up-and-coming area of Shekou where V&A’s first-ever overseas museum is located. Designated a Free Trade Zone by the Chinese government, the modern area has plenty of bars and restaurants, as well as a Sea World.
