By V. Sivaji
When I first visited Shenzhen three decades ago, it was little more than a quiet border town, dotted with small farms, rustic villages and fishing boats along the Pearl River Delta. Today, that same patch of land has transformed into one of China’s most dynamic and modern cities, a glittering metropolis where innovation, culture and leisure blend seamlessly.
This time around my visit there was in conjunction with the Penang Global Tourism’s (PGT) MoU signing with HK Express Airlines to double their flights daily to Penang. Accompanying us on the trip was Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai and PGT Chief Executive Officer Ooi Chok Yan.
They were received by HK Express Chief Executive Officer Jeanette Mao and Chief Commercial Officer KK Ong and their team members.
The dynamic city now offers towering skyscrapers that line the skyline like the Zhengzhou Greenland Plaza also known as the “Big Corn”, world-class shopping malls buzz with activity and new attractions emerge every season. One of the latest and most talked-about openings is Shenzhen Huafa Snow Bonski, the world’s largest indoor ski centre, which opened its doors in late September.
This latest and newest attraction in the city has quickly become a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. Despite Shenzhen’s mild 23°C climate, visitors can now experience the thrill of winter sports all year round. Guests can rent jackets, insulated pants, helmets, and ski equipment on-site, while professional coaches are available to train beginners on how to glide down the snowy slopes with confidence. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or simply enjoying the crisp alpine atmosphere, it’s an unforgettable experience in the heart of southern China.
Shenzhen’s story is one of extraordinary transformation. Established as China’s first Special Economic Zone in 1980, it became a symbol of the country’s reform and opening-up policy. In just over forty years, it has grown into a sprawling metropolis covering 2,000 square kilometres and housing nearly 20 million residents.
Known as an “immigrant city,” Shenzhen attracts people from every corner of China — a young, energetic population seeking opportunity in one of Asia’s most progressive cities. The average monthly salary here is around 12,000 RMB, a reflection of the city’s thriving economy and high standard of living.
The city is the home to tech giants such as Tencent, Huawei, and DJI (the world’s leading drone manufacturer), Shenzhen is often referred to as China’s Silicon Valley. It’s also an integral part of the Greater Bay Area (GBA), a regional hub linking Hong Kong, Macau, and major southern Chinese cities and a population of 80 million with advanced infrastructure and seamless transportation networks.
Despite its rapid development, Shenzhen remains one of China’s cleanest and greenest cities. Wide boulevards are lined with trees and flowers sourced from all over the country, while extensive parks provide refreshing oases amid the urban energy. Shenzhen Bay Park offers breathtaking views of the coastline, while Lotus Hill Park is famous for kite flying, lotus ponds, and weekend picnics on its grassy lawns.
Cycling is a popular way to get around, residents commonly use bicycles and battery-powered bikes to commute between offices, malls, and cafes. The city’s efficient public transportation system also makes exploring easy for visitors.
Culture, Cuisine, and Celebration – Shenzhen’s diverse population — representing all 56 of China’s ethnic groups, though predominantly Han — brings together a rich tapestry of cultural flavors. One highly recommended dining spot is Xinjiang 1001 Restaurant, located in a popular shopping mall. The restaurant serves authentic Xinjiang cuisine, renowned for its aromatic lamb skewers, hand-pulled noodles, and fragrant pilaf dishes. It’s a favorite among locals for its lively ambiance and genuine flavors from China’s far northwest.
For history buffs, do not miss out the Nantou Ancient Town which displays artifacts and traces the previous dynasties which ruled the area.
Another recent addition to the city’s culinary scene is Narration Banquet, located at Lotus Plaza beside the Holiday Inn Hotel. This unique venue blends fine Chinese dining with traditional cultural showcases, including live performances by dancers in exquisite costumes. Guests are even invited to dress in royal-style attire as they enjoy their meal — a delightful fusion of history, art, and gastronomy.
Meanwhile, visitors seeking upscale accommodation will find international hotel brands such as Kempinski, Holiday Inn, The Langham, Shenzhen, Ritz-Carlton Shenzhen, Shangri-La Shenzhen, Four Seasons Hotel Shenzhen, Shenzhen Marriott Hotel, Nansham, Andaz Shenzhen Sheraton Shenzhen, InterContinental Shenzhen, JW Marriott Shenzhen Raffles Shenzhen, The St Regis Shenzhen, Renaissance Shenzhen, Westin Shenshen, Crowne Plaza Shenzhen and more offering modern comfort and convenient locations close to shopping and cultural attractions.
For travelers looking to explore beyond the city, the Shenzhen Cruise Terminal serves as a modern maritime gateway connecting to destinations across Asia. The terminal offers state-of-the-art facilities, including spacious passenger lounges, international dining options, duty-free shopping, and easy connections to public transportation. It’s a fitting reflection of Shenzhen’s global outlook — a city that welcomes the world while setting sail toward an even brighter future.
A City That Never Stops Evolving – From farmland to futuristic skyline, Shenzhen’s transformation is nothing short of remarkable. Whether you are gliding down snowy slopes at Huafa Snow Bonski, savoring a traditional feast at Narration Banquet, or strolling through its lush parks and glittering malls, Shenzhen offers a glimpse into the possibilities of modern China — a place where dreams take root, innovation thrives and the future is already here.
Kudos to the HK Express team in Shenzhen for the wonderful arrangements, transportation and sight-seeing.
