OCT Loft
Shenzhen is much more than a center for copying the Old Masters. It is becoming China’s creative capital attracting modern designers, inventors, and artists. The up and coming artsy community at OCT Loft is housed in what was once a manufacturing district. There are art galleries, bookstores, coffee shops, bars, and bistros. Besides, the Art Terminal is huge and fun to explore.
Dàfēn Oil Painting Village
This folksy urban village of narrow lanes and alleys is a pleasure to visit in itself, but what makes Dàfēn simply unmissable are the hundreds of art studios and stores churning out reproduction oil paintings by hand, from Van Gogh's sunflowers to enormous, gilt-framed scenes of mounted cavalry or galleons at sea rendered in lavish detail, costing upwards of ¥2000.
All this has earned Dàfēn the nickname of 'the world's art factory', a reputation the authorities are now seeking to upgrade with the staging of international art festivals, improved road access and the construction of the new Dàfēn Art Museum. But for now, the place remains quirky and full of character.
Nanshan Mountains
Like it is hilly neighbor Hong Kong, Shenzhen is much more than cityscapes and shopping malls. Escaping into the countryside is a must. The Nanshan mountains in Shekou prove to be a particularly pleasurable getaway. With beautiful views of the ocean and moderate climbs, its tranquillity and remoteness provide a wonderful contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city.
Liánhuā Shān Park
It is an easy half-hour amble up to the top of this tropical hill in the heart of Fútián District for Shēnzhèn's best skyline photographs. Appropriately, you will be sharing the mind-blowing vistas with Deng Xiaoping, whose economic reforms in the 1980s made this whole crazy mess of prosperity possible.
Window of the World
Shenzhen Window of The World is China’s largest miniature theme park that integrates vivid replicas of the world’s wonders, historical heritages, famous scenic sites and folk performances. It contains 140 sight spots and divided into nine areas World Square, Europe, Asia, Oceania, Africa, America, Modern Science and Technology, Entertainment, Sculpture Park and International Streets. At night, there are night shows combined by folk songs.
Dongmen Old Street
A crowded, bustling old-fashioned Chinese shopping experience, Dongmen Old Street is several blocks long and has malls, market stalls, winding side streets, and plazas. The vendors sell shirts, food, handbags, shoes, underwear, and more. Be prepared to bargain at the market stalls and look for heavy discounts at the malls.