Shenzhen

The Window of the World is a microcosm of the world’s most famous landmarks. You can visit over 130 models including the Eiffel Tower, the pyramids, Cambodia’s Angkor Wat and more, all in only one afternoon. A wide range of festivals is held here throughout the year, like the Beer Festival in the summer and Dance Festival in winter.

One of the most popular activities among locals is hiking the Wutong Mountain. You can choose different trails depending on your fitness level. It is a refreshing experience to see breathtaking views, extending as far as Hong Kong on a sunny day. There is also a botanical garden and the most prosperous temple in Shenzhen - Hongfa.

This theme park with a scale map of China’s most famous landmarks covers 30 hectares. Xian’s terracotta army, Sichuan’s Leshan Buddha and of course the Great Wall are all here. It may give you a few more ideas of places to visit beyond the classic Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven of a China tour. Moreover, you can also get a to know various cultures and customs of all the 55 minority ethnic groups in China.

The 600-year-old fortress, located approximately a 90 minute trip from Shenzhen centre, retains much of its original character including a walled military village and forts for protecting residents from pirates. In 2007, it was classified as UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage.

This 250-metre long, 4-meter wide street is certainly one of the most interesting ways to cross from Hong Kong to Shekou town in Shenzhen. One side of the street literally belongs to Hong Kong, and the other to Mainland China. If you are interested in understanding the story behind, Chung Ying Street Historical Museum is here for you depicting its history. This is also an ideal place for shopping, for all the products here are tax-free. However, it is reported that this place has a lot of fake goods so it is advised to be careful when shopping. A specific entrance permit is needed which you can get at the entrance for 15 RMB.

Not only can you enjoy a multitude of calligraphy pieces, but also understand the brief history of Shenzhen by visiting varied exhibition halls, including Beginning of the City, Marine Economy, an Important Strategic Town on Coastal Defense and Ancient Immigration.

OCT Harbour is an emerging hot spot for leisure, dining, and shopping. It consists of modern exhibitions, art galleries, shopping malls, an aquarium, an open-air theatre, an IMAX cinema, restaurants and an artificial beach. You can enjoy varied entertainment and the breathtaking view of of Shenzhen's skyline.

He Xiangning Art Museum was named after a highly regarded female painter. The central government constructed the art gallery to represent the traditions and culture of the Chinese people. The museum holds regular exhibitions displaying artwork by various contemporary artists.

Dameisha Beach is an exceptional beach, waters washing over it warm virtually all year round. You can also enjoy spectacular panoramic views of encircling mountains and Hong Kong from a distance. During the summer time, it’s a great place to enjoy swimming, horse riding, parasailing and other kinds of water sports.

Located near the Shuiwantou Bay, Design Society is China's first center dedicated to culture and design. Working in collaboration with London's Victoria & Albert Museum, this art center aims to be not only a platform to showcase cutting edge design, but also to foster the thriving design scene in Southern China. The building in itself and its lush roof garden is already worth the trip.