Breakfast → Lianhua Mountain Park → Huaqiangbei → Lunch → Dongmen Old Street → Light Show & Night View → Late Night Snacks
Let's take Metro Line 3/4 to "Children‘s Palace Station Exit E," which is very close to the breakfast spot.
We recommend the following three places for breakfast.
Remember the metro station exit you just came from? Return there and head to Exit F1 of this metro station. After exiting, you will see an escalator. Take the escalator to the platform and follow the signs to reach the highest point of Lianhua Mountain—Xiaoping Statue Square.
💰 Ticket price: 8 RMB ⏰ Opening hours: March to October: 09:00-19:00 / November to February: 09:00-18:00 📷 Recommended visit duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour Lianhua Mountain Scenic Area covers an area of approximately 181 hectares and is a national key park integrating ecology and leisure. It was established in 1992 and officially opened in 1997, named after its "seven lotus-shaped peaks." "Xiaoping Statue Square" is located at the mountain's summit, about 100 meters above sea level. The statue stands 6 meters tall, facing the center of Futian. This is the highest outdoor viewing platform in Shenzhen, offering a 360° panoramic view of Futian CBD, Civic Center, Ping An Finance Center, and other landmark buildings, with a distant view of Hong Kong's mountain contours. Who was Deng Xiaoping? Deng Xiaoping (1904–1997) was the chief architect of China's reform and opening-up, a series of policies that profoundly reshaped China's development path and influenced the world. As the core leader of the Communist Party of China's second generation, his "Reform and Opening-up" policy shifted China from a planned economy to a market-oriented one, driving the country's modernization. In 1978, Deng initiated China's reform and opening-up, with Shenzhen emerging as the "testing ground" for this historic transformation. In 1980, he personally approved the establishment of China's first Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Shenzhen, granting it special policies to attract foreign investment, technology, and talent. At the time, Shenzhen was a fishing village with a population of less than 30,000, but Deng believed firmly: "We must be bolder in reform and opening-up, daring to experiment." Deng's decisions transformed Shenzhen from a border town into an international metropolis. More importantly, through Shenzhen, he proved that socialism and a market economy could coexist. Today, Shenzhen is not only a hub for China's high-tech industries but also a key node in the Belt and Road Initiative. As Deng said: "SEZs are windows—windows for technology, management, knowledge, and foreign policy." This vision endures: in 2023, Shenzhen ranked first among Chinese cities in PCT international patent applications for the 19th consecutive year, confirming its role as an innovation engine. Fueled by open policies, Shenzhen attracted massive foreign investment, giving birth to global tech giants like Huawei and Tencent. In 2024, its GDP reached 3.68 trillion yuan (about $510 billion), over 10,000 times its 1980 figure, making it a global hub for technological innovation. The impact of "Reform and Opening-up" on China has been even more profound. In 1978, China's GDP was only $149.5 billion, accounting for 1.7% of the world economy; by 2023, its GDP reached $17.8 trillion, accounting for 16.9% of the global total. Deng emphasized that "poverty is not socialism," and the fruits of reform and opening-up have benefited all people. From "ten-thousand-yuan households" to "comprehensive well-off," per capita disposable income increased from 171 yuan in 1978 to 39,800 yuan in 2023—a 232-fold increase. According to current standards, all 98.99 million rural poor have been lifted out of poverty, and regional overall poverty has been completely eliminated; since the reform began, a cumulative 770 million rural people have escaped poverty, accounting for more than 70% of the global poverty reduction population. China has built the world's largest social security system, covering 1.05 billion people; the gross enrollment rate in higher education increased from 1.55% in 1978 to 60% in 2023, and the high-speed rail mileage reached 45,000 kilometers (first in the world). Deng Xiaoping once said: "I am the son of the Chinese people, and I love my motherland and people deeply." His planning for Shenzhen was precisely the embodiment of this feeling—through opening up and reform, allowing China to integrate into the world and enabling the people to live better lives. Today, Shenzhen continues to write this legend. Reform and opening-up have not only pushed China onto the path of prosperity but also enriched the possibilities of human development through the "Chinese model of governance." Adhering to the direction of reform and opening-up on the new journey is the best tribute to this great architect.
Metro lines 1, 2, 7, and 8 all lead to Huaqiang North.
Learning about Huaqiangbei Huaqiangbei is not just a building or a mall, nor merely a large area; it is a symbol of spirit. Shenzhen's Huaqiangbei is known as "China's No. 1 Electronics Street," covering an area of 2.96 square kilometers. It was originally an industrial area focused on producing electronic, communication, and electrical products. 2003 marked the beginning of Huaqiangbei's historical significance. That year, Taiwan's MediaTek launched a single-chip mobile phone solution, lowering the threshold for mobile phone manufacturing. Huaqiangbei's gray market phone vendors seized this opportunity, assembling phones with just a chip, a shell, and a battery, thus creating a perfect counterfeit phone industry chain in Huaqiangbei. During its peak, Huaqiangbei's counterfeit phones featured various functions, such as 4 SIM cards, 9999mAh battery capacity, extremely loud "voice king" phones, and 12-megapixel phones with built-in DSLR cameras. The creativity was boundless. (Counterfeit phones were full of wild imagination, weren't they?) At its peak, Huaqiangbei had 36 wholesale markets, over 26,000 shops, and an annual shipment of 150 million counterfeit phones, making it the largest mobile phone trading center in Asia. Back then, counters were rented by the meter, with a one-meter counter's monthly transaction volume reaching tens of millions, monthly rent soaring to 300,000 RMB, and transfer fees exceeding one million RMB. There was even a young man who achieved a business legend worth billions in just three years with a one-meter counter. People joked, "If Huaqiangbei gets congested, electronic components prices nationwide will rise." In 2006, DJI was founded in Shenzhen, leveraging Huaqiangbei's powerful electronic component production capabilities. Various materials for producing drones were readily available, allowing rapid development. In Huaqiangbei, any creative idea could be turned into a product within weeks, with prices significantly lower than international counterparts. Today, Huaqiangbei has evolved into a commercial circle with 20 various types of electronic professional markets, making it the largest electronic product distribution center in Asia. It also includes retail, specialty dining, clothing markets, and gold and jewelry malls. In 2019, Huaqiangbei Pedestrian Street was rated as a national AAA-level tourist attraction. (LED screen text reads "Future Billionaire's Shop") Here, every seemingly inconspicuous small counter hides a large factory and a big dream. To this day, the wealth legends here continue to update—In 2017, Huaqiangbei seized the beauty product trend, profiting from smuggling beauty products from abroad. Ming Tong Electronics Mall even renamed itself "Ming Tong Beauty Mall." In 2020, global chip shortages allowed Huaqiangbei's backpackers to earn millions annually, with experienced bosses making tens of millions. In late March 2024, Huaqiangbei released a self-developed Bluetooth earphone, Huaqiangbei Podspro, featuring a touch screen on the charging case to control volume and music playback, similar to Apple's upcoming AirPods Pro3, which won't be released until 2025. Thus, Huaqiangbei was joked to have released Apple's product ahead of time. Smartwatches are even crazier, with Huaqiangbei sellers offering similar product experiences at one-twentieth the price, evoking the sentiment "Don't be too greedy." Huaqiangbei Shopping Tips: If you have some knowledge of consumer electronics, you can test your expertise here. If you are completely unfamiliar, avoid impulsive purchases; while you won't be deceived, the value may not be high. If you encounter products very similar to those from brands like Dyson or Apple, don't be surprised; this is a Huaqiangbei specialty. These "replicas" are usually priced at one-tenth to one-twentieth of the genuine items, offering tempting value. Streetfront shops tend to be expensive. For better value, visit major markets, where higher floors often offer lower prices. Feel free to try everything; be bold. You can haggle for everything, typically starting with a 10% discount or rounding off the price. However, avoid excessive haggling, such as cutting off more than a quarter, as it may be considered impolite. For second-hand goods, avoid items that look too perfect or are priced too low, as they may have hidden issues. Comparing prices among different shops is always a good idea. Don't expect to explore all of Huaqiangbei in one day; it's too vast. Follow directions to find what you want. Every day from 15:00 to 18:00 is the "golden 3 hours" for vendors, as they receive quotes, start shipping, packing, and remitting money. During this time, service staff may be insufficient, and your shopping experience might decline.
Since you are in Huaqiangbei, you must experience the food that fuels the entrepreneurs here. These meals are designed to quickly fill you up, providing a balanced mix of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. They are efficient, flavorful, and perfectly suited for those who are always on the go, making them the best choice for hardworking individuals.
💰 Admission: Free, but advance reservation is required. You must present the reservation QR code and a valid ID for entry. ⏰ Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM). Closed on Mondays. 📷 Recommended visit duration: 1 hour
Heading to Dongmen Old Street.
📷 Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours Dongmen Laojie Street is one of Shenzhen's earliest commercial centers. As far back as the Ming and Qing dynasties, it was a bustling market in Bao'an County. Initially composed of a few small streets, it gradually developed into the well-known "Shenzhen Market," a historic marketplace primarily dealing in agricultural products, textiles, and poultry. The name "Shenzhen" is closely tied to this area. It originated from a deep water ditch nearby called "Shenzhen" (where "Zhen" means ditch in the local dialect), which gave rise to the name "Shenzhen Market" and eventually evolved into today's Shenzhen City. Thus, Dongmen Old Street is considered the birthplace of Shenzhen In 1913, with the opening of the Guangzhou-Kowloon Railway, Dongmen Laojie Street became a gateway connecting Hong Kong and mainland China. The establishment of Luohu Station attracted merchants from all over, marking the beginning of modern commercial evolution. After the establishment of the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone in 1979, Dongmen Laojie Street became the first commercial center. It saw the birth of China's first McDonald's (opened in 1990 and still a popular tourist spot) and iconic commercial entities like Maoye Department Store. A fishing village here also became China's first "10,000-yuan household" village due to its involvement in the Special Economic Zone's construction, even receiving a visit from then-Chinese President Deng Xiaoping. What is a "10,000-yuan household"? A "10,000-yuan household" refers to families with an annual income or savings exceeding 10,000 yuan, a special group that emerged during the early stages of China's reform and opening-up in the late 1970s and early 1980s. This concept was born during a critical period of China's economic transition. At that time, under a planned economy, everyone's income was almost fixed, with ordinary people's monthly salaries ranging from 20 to 100 yuan. Ten thousand yuan was equivalent to nearly 30 years of income for an average worker without spending a penny. It could buy about 70,000 jin (35,000 kg) of rice or 10,000 jin (5,000 kg) of pork. In 1979, 10,000 yuan was approximately equivalent to 6,685 USD, which was about two months' income for a middle-class American family. Imagine that half a century ago, a month's income for an American middle-class family could take a Chinese person 30 years to earn. To improve people's living standards, the reform and opening-up policy was implemented in 1979. Land was handed over to individuals for farming in rural areas, and people in urban areas were allowed to establish micro-enterprises, encouraging wealth accumulation through hard work. As a result, some people began to accumulate wealth through agricultural innovation or business operations. For example, in 1978, Huang Xinwen, a farmer from Zhongshan, Guangdong, earned 10,700 yuan through pig farming and lychee cultivation, becoming the first farmer "10,000-yuan household" reported by the People's Daily. The term "10,000-yuan household" became synonymous with strivers of that era. This situation changed in 1997 when the average rural household income exceeded 10,000 yuan, and the status of "10,000-yuan household" was replaced by "millionaire." In the 1980s, with the establishment of Shenzhen as a city, Dongmen Laojie Street became one of the first bustling shopping districts after the reform and opening-up. It was once called "Shenzhen's Nanjing Road," a favorite place for Shenzhen residents to shop, buy clothes, and enjoy food in the 1980s and 1990s. Especially in the 1990s, Dongmen was synonymous with "fashion." At that time, Shenzhen residents would come here for dates, gatherings, or to buy new clothes. Opening a shop here was a prestigious thing, and "setting up a stall in Dongmen" even became synonymous with entrepreneurship Today, Dongmen Laojie Street has been upgraded to a 176,000-square-meter pedestrian street, with an average daily foot traffic of 300,000 people. It retains historical traces, such as walls built with century-old bricks and bronze sculptures of the Dongmen Market, while also featuring many live-streaming influencers showcasing their youthful energy and the new look of this old street to the world. When strolling around, you can freely visit the nearest points of interest without worrying about the order. Remember, the key to having fun is to take it slow and enjoy yourself.
As the evening lights illuminate the city, step into a Chaozhou restaurant to savor authentic marinated flavors, where the aroma of spices and meat intertwine. Dinner in Futian is a leisurely stroll through diverse flavors, with each bite a gift of life, allowing you to indulge in a culinary celebration after a busy day. Note: Please be mindful of the time while dining. If you have a reservation at Ping An Finance Center for the evening, make sure to arrive by 8:00 PM.
When visiting Shenzhen, you must experience the city's night views. In this city of strivers, the night is not just a continuation of the day but also the unfolding of a different commercial ecosystem, showcasing a beauty entirely distinct from the daytime.
We Recommend Three Transportation Options:
Performance Dates: Every Friday, Saturday, and the day before public holidays (excluding special dates such as Qingming Festival, July 7th, September 18th, etc.). Summer and Autumn (April-October): 19:30, 20:30, 21:30, each show lasts 15 minutes. Winter and Spring (November-March): 19:00, 20:00, 21:00, each show lasts 15 minutes. Special Adjustments: The light show may be temporarily canceled or switched to regular landscape lighting in case of extreme weather such as typhoons or heavy rain, or if major events are held at the Civic Center Plaza. Performance Content: Centered around the Civic Center, the show involves 43 buildings and 5 public spaces (such as Lianhua Mountain Park and Civic Plaza), creating a 270° panoramic visual effect. With 1.18 million LED point light sources covering the building facades and a total power of about 3725 kilowatts, the dynamic light and shadow synchronization is achieved through an intelligent control system. The regular performance includes three themes: "Glorious New Era," "Vibrant City," and "City Interaction," with special editions for holidays (such as Chinese New Year and the 15th National Games). "Glorious New Era" Theme: Showcasing Shenzhen's achievements over 40 years of reform and opening up, incorporating iconic elements such as "The Tide Rises in the Pearl River" and "Peng City Spreads Its Wings." Highlights: The "Great Peng Spreads Its Wings" shape of the Civic Center synchronizes with the building lights, presenting a visually stunning "Golden Peng Soars" effect. Dynamic displays of Shenzhen's GDP growth, technological innovation achievements (such as DJI drones and Huawei 5G), and other data visualization content. "Vibrant City" Theme: Designed by an international artist team, highlighting fashion, technology, and urban vitality. Highlights: Graffiti-style animations by Australian artist Mulga, paired with electronic music, creating a street art atmosphere. The "Future City" chapter designed by the Burj Khalifa light show team in Dubai, showcasing a cyberpunk style through particle effects and building projections. "City Interaction" Theme: Emphasizing citizen participation, with real-time data driving light changes. Highlights: On-site audience can upload photos or text via a mini-program, generating personalized light patterns projected onto buildings. Interactive lighting across landmarks such as Shenzhen Bay's "Spring Bamboo Shoot." Here are four viewing locations.
After exploring the ghost market, it might be early morning. In Shenzhen, late-night snacks are a must-try. If you're hungry, experience Shenzhen's late-night snack culture. Understanding Shenzhen's Late-Night Snack Culture: Shenzhen's late-night snack culture originates from the night snack traditions of southern China. With the city's rapid development, it has gradually formed its unique style. As an immigrant city, Shenzhen gathers people from all over the country, blending various food cultures and providing rich material for the development of late-night snack culture. For Shenzhen residents, late-night snacks are an important social activity. After a busy day, people gather with colleagues, friends, or family to enjoy food, relieve stress, and strengthen relationships. Strangers might even become acquainted over a pot of casserole porridge, making late-night snacks a bond connecting people. Here, there is no workplace pressure or life's trivialities. People can find solace in food and feel the warmth and vitality of the city.
As the twilight gently envelops the silhouette of Lianhua Mountain, the day comes to an end. In this city that never sleeps, you might not see the stars when you look up. But if you observe closely, you will see a light in the eyes of the entrepreneurs that shines brighter than any star—whether it's the hurried white-collar worker, the unassuming restaurant owner, or even the somewhat rustic and roguish ghost market vendor. These are the burning dreams and tireless efforts of entrepreneurs, continuously pouring into the land beneath their feet over the past 40 years, giving rise to the cyber forest of steel and LED lights before you. This is Shenzhen. This is the spirit of Shenzhen people. Here, there is no "completion," only a future that is perpetually in the making. Good night, and may you take away a seed of your own dream from this forest. If you enjoyed today's itinerary, please consider leaving us a positive review. It will greatly help other travelers who wish to visit China. Of course, if there was anything you were not satisfied with, please let us know promptly. This will help us continuously improve our services. Thank you very much. Good night.
1. This guide is not suitable for Mondays as the Huaqiangbei Museum is closed on that day. Note that no appointment is necessary for this museum.
2. Please wear comfortable shoes as there will be quite a bit of walking today.
3. Try to carry a power bank to ensure your phone stays charged.
4. Please do not carry too many items, especially knives or fragile items.
5. Shenzhen is often very hot, so please stay cool and carry at least one bottle of drinking water. If you feel too hot, you can also go to any shop by the roadside to cool down.
6. Remember to bring your passport.
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★ 5.0 / 5 · 12 reviews from app travelers
Great day out: Lianhua Mountain in the morning for the park and the statue overlooking the city, Huaqiangbei for shopping (my wife found bargains on electronics), then the night views and the Civic Center light show — impressive even by Shanghai standards. A full, satisfying taste of Shenzhen's energy.
El sueño de cualquier amante de los mercados. Huaqiangbei es electrónica infinita — regateé un accesorio de dron y gané. La calle vieja de Dongmen es la misma energía pero en versión snacks y streetwear. El espectáculo de luces del Centro Cívico fue la guinda — todo el skyline se convierte en pantalla. Shenzhen me sorprendió por completo.
ในฐานะคนเอเชียตะวันออกเฉียงใต้ หัวเฉียงเป่ยให้ความรู้สึกคุ้นเคยแต่ใหญ่กว่า: ตลาดแกดเจ็ตของกรุงเทพฯ แต่ขยายเป็นสเกลมหึมา เราต่อรองกันอย่างจริงจังและกลับบ้านพร้อมของแถมราคาดีเยี่ยม โชว์แสงสีตอนกลางคืนที่ศูนย์ประชุมเป็นตอนจบที่สวยงาม และของกินดึกๆ ใกล้ตงเหมินก็ดีอย่างที่เขาว่าไว้
Хуацянбэй — самая безумная торговая улица из всех, что я видела: электроника этажами, продавцы знают свой товар вслепую. Я выторговала хорошую цену на наушники и пауэрбанк. Горный парк Ляньхуа — спокойное зелёное начало, а вечернее световое шоу у Сивик-центра — по-настоящему эффектно. Скорость Шэньчжэня, драйв Шэньчжэня.
O mercado eletrónico de Huaqiangbei parece um labirinto ciberpunk: as cores dos letreiros LED são loucas mas ordenadas, e as luzes do mercado noturno são um cenário fantástico para fotografar. Da colina Lianhua ao espetáculo de luzes do Centro Cívico, Shenzhen desenha a sua «velocidade» de forma clara.
La escala de Huaqiangbei supera lo imaginable: un océano de electrónica que transmite la fuerza de la industria china. Desde la colina Lianhua se ve todo Shenzhen, y el espectáculo de luces del Centro Cívico es el colofón moderno. El metro estaba todo indicado; con niños, ni un momento de agobio.
