Take you to explore Shenzhen, a treasure city where "futuristic vibes" and "local life" coexist

If you think Shenzhen is just about skyscrapers, you’re totally mistaken! As a “pseudo-local” who has wandered here countless times, I must say the charm of Shenzhen is hidden at the top of the Ferris wheel, in the rice noodle shops on old streets, and by the seaside around some corner. This guide will help you capture both the “futuristic vibe” and the “local life” of Shenzhen in 48 hours! Day 1: Experience the “Shenzhen Speed” and the beauty of design Morning: Step into the living room of the “city of the future” Wake up naturally and your first stop must be the Futian CBD. Walking out from Civic Center Metro Station, it feels like stepping into a sci-fi movie. On the left is the “Dapeng Soaring” Civic Center, and on the right is the legendary Ping An Finance Center. I recommend buying a ticket to the Cloud Observation Deck to overlook the entire Shenzhen from over 500 meters high. The feeling is like the city’s energy is flowing right beneath your feet. The winding Shennan Avenue, the grid-like clusters of buildings, and the faintly visible mountains of Hong Kong in the distance are absolutely breathtaking! Noon: Have lunch in the “hall of design” After coming down from the clouds, take a taxi for about ten minutes to Overseas Chinese Town Creative Culture Park, which we all call “OCT.” This place is a completely different world from the morning’s CBD! The park, transformed from old factories, is covered with greenery and hides countless interesting cafes, bookstores, and designer shops. Pick any restaurant that catches your eye for lunch—whether it’s exquisite Western cuisine or creative fusion dishes—and snap plenty of artsy photos while you’re at it. Afternoon: Dive into the “colorful world” of art If OCT isn’t enough, I strongly recommend visiting the Sea World Culture and Arts Center. It’s located by the sea in Shekou, and the building itself looks like a white hill. Here you’ll find various cutting-edge art exhibitions, and the best part is its large outdoor steps facing the sea. When you get tired of the exhibits, grab a coffee, sit on the steps, enjoy the sea breeze, watch the boats come and go, and wait for a stunning sunset over the ocean—it’s pure bliss! Evening: Enjoy the night view of the Minghua ship Have dinner in the Sea World area! The highlight here is the huge “Minghua” cruise ship, now surrounded by restaurants offering cuisines from around the world. At 7:30 PM (time may vary, please check on-site), there’s an amazing music fountain show. The water jets dance to the music, paired with lights, creating an atmosphere that’s simply unforgettable! Day 2: Discover the flavors and landscapes of old Shenzhen Morning: Go to the old streets and taste the soul Coming to Shenzhen without experiencing the morning tea culture is like not coming at all! Get up early on the second day and head straight to the Yantian Seafood Street area or any local tea house with long queues, such as “Dian Du De” or “Fan Lou.” Order shrimp dumplings, chicken feet, red rice sausage, custard buns... with a pot of tea and several dim sum baskets, watch the locals chatting around you—this is the most authentic Shenzhen morning. After breakfast, take a stroll along the nearby Yantian Coastal Boardwalk, enjoy the fishing port scenery, and help digest. Afternoon: Travel back 800 years to “Shenzhen” Don’t think Shenzhen has no history! Take a taxi to Dapeng Fortress, the origin of Shenzhen’s nickname “Pengcheng.” This Ming and Qing dynasty coastal defense ancient city has well-preserved bluestone streets, ancient city gates, and the general’s mansion. Spend a leisurely two hours here, listen to the waves and echoes of history, and you’ll gain a whole new understanding of Shenzhen. Evening: Head to the ocean of fun For the last stop of your trip, save your energy for Shenzhen Happy Valley or Window of the World. If you love thrill rides, the roller coasters at Happy Valley will make you scream. If you prefer sightseeing, the miniature landscapes at Window of the World look magical under the night lights—it’s like “traveling the world.” Choose one based on your preference! “Helpful Tips” · Transportation: Shenzhen’s metro network is super developed. Download the “Shenzhen Tong” app to scan and ride metro and buses easily! · Accommodation: For convenient shopping and dining, stay near Luohu Dongmen; for modern city night views, choose Futian or Nanshan. · Food: Besides morning tea, be sure to try Shenzhen’s coconut chicken, claypot rice, and Chaoshan beef hotpot—delicious treats that will make your taste buds dance! Shenzhen is not just a city of startups; it’s a vibrant city with sea, mountains, history, and delicious food waiting for you to explore. Have an amazing time in Shenzhen!