shenzhen day trip from hong kong

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• Shenzhen from Hong Kong: day trip + weekend guide

This is post 6 of 9 in the series “China”

China – the land of dragons is a vast and varied country that witnessed one of the oldest history in the world. Pagodas, temples, majestic mountains and rivers, it’s a place like no others and almost like another world. Fortunately, I speak Mandarin so here are some of my hidden top tips;

• The Ultimate half day Guide to Forbidden City, Beijing
• A 48 hours guide to Macau, China
• A weekend spa getaway to St Regis Macau
• China travel tips: what to know before traveling to China
• Qingyuan China: 7 things to do
• Shanghai water town: Zhujiajiao vs Qibao
• Shanghai Itinerary 5 days for first time visitors
• Best restaurants in Shanghai and what to eat

Shenzhen has always been a popular day trip or quick escape option from Hong Kong ever since I was little. However, there are so much more things to do in Shenzhen now besides shopping at Lowu (which is what we did about 10-20 years ago).

Though RMB is stronger than HKD now, the average cost of living in Shenzhen is still lower than Hong Kong, meaning eating out and other entertainments are more affordable. Beyond that, Shenzhen has become a UNESCO City of Design with modern architecture and art that surprises many visitors (including me).

This will be a regularly updated post as I explore and write up more about Shenzhen, what to do, and how to get around!

>For more info on visiting China for the first time, check my China Travel Tips post

Hong Kong China Passport/Visa check

You would need to go through immigration between Hong Kong and China as they have a different system.

• For Hong Kong residents with ID card and or passport, you would need what is referred to as ‘Home Return Permit’. You can apply for this through the China Travel Service that is valid for 10 years (I can only find the website in Chinese). If you are a frequent traveler between the two, you should also apply for the fast track at the border.
• If you are a visitor in Hong Kong, you would need to obtain a China Visa . A 10 year visa costs the same as a 1 day visa obtained at the border so there’s really no point in not getting the former.

Travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen

Hong kong to shenzhen.

There are a lot of ways to get from Hong Kong to Shenzhen, but here I will focus on the most common public transport methods to cross the border.

The East Rail Line has two endpoints that both connect to a border with metro station at a different part of Shenzhen. Lo Wu is the more historic one, linking to the Lo Wu district in Shenzhen since 1949. The border is reached on foot and you go through a bridge that straddles the river which acts as the natural territory boundary between the two.

The other point is Lok Ma Chau , which opened in 2007 and connects to the Futian Border . Again, it has a similar set up to Lu Wo but is much more modern. It is usually less crowded but not really that much of a difference.

Note that both borders closes at midnight and opens at 6:30.

The main thoroughfare for buses is that Huanggang Port. It is the second most popular border aside from Lo Wu, but doesn’t connect to a Hong Kong MTR or train station, although it does link to a Shenzhen metro stop. There are plenty of buses that go to this port.

Things to do in Shenzhen

There are many things to do in Shenzhen, although most of the Hong Kongese venture up in search for three main things: food, photo opportunities, and entertainment. The later mostly relates to Karaoke or massages, though sports can be cheaper to try such as archery.

There are a large number of massage parlours in Shenzhen for every budget, and it’s a favourite thing to do for Hong Kongese to venture up north for a massage. It is worth booking beforehand if you have a place in mind, especially during public holidays and weekend.

When we went up, we didn’t end up getting a massage because most places were booked. You can check the ratings for the massage parlours on Daiping App (only available in Chinese) , otherwise, here are some that I recommend:

Note: most charges a compulsory tip on top – however, if you go to a medicinal (推拿) place, no tip is necessary

Shenzhen Hotpot

If you like hot pot then you’ll be spoilt for choice in Shenzhen. A feast for the meat lovers, it’s much cheaper to eat in Shenzhen than in Hong Kong. personally, I highly recommend the beef speciality and the coconut chicken ones!

For beef hot pot: Bahe Lihaiji Beef Shop 八合里海記牛肉店

For coconut chicken: Runyuan Fours Seasons Coconut Chicken 润园四季椰子鸡

With much cheaper prices and more abundant studio, going to an archery studio in Shenzhen is a good, sporty, indoor option. While the prices are generally cheaper than in Hong Kong, it is even cheaper if you can go on Dianping and purchase groupon style packages. But for that you’ll need to have money on your Alipay or Wechat wallet and perhaps a China mobile number, too.

Cheese cap fruit tea

While you can get cheese cap tea in Hong Kong, too, there are a few brands that just do it better in Shenzhen. Not to mention it’s a little bit cheaper plus more refreshing than getting it in Hong Kong. Hey Tea is the most popular one, often spotting a long queue.

Naixuecha is another successful brand with their ea and bread concept. If you like fruit, bread, and innovative food, then you have to go and try!

Address for Hey Tea

Naixuecha 奈雪の茶

Shenzhen attractions

There are a fair amount of things to see in Shenzhen, but here, I’ll be handpicking my favourites and leaving out ones that are just a bit too cliche.

An old market turned pedestrian area and mega shopping district, Dongmen is a good place to scout for street food while wandering around.

Shenzhen shopping mall

Shenzhen can be split into ‘business/shopping districts’ with various huge mall complexes scattered. They are great for day trippers looking for entertainments all in one place, in particular food! Here are some of my personal favourites:

A new development, the OCT Bay is the best place to go shopping and enjoy a chillax afternoon. With stone paved wide streets and elegant cafes and restaurants, its design combine modernity with traditional architecture. So not only do you have high ceiling malls, you’ll also find paved stone streets and arch bridges. It’s also close to the Shenzhen Bay Park which is good for sunset and cycling.

Nearest station: Shenzhen Bay Park station 深圳灣公園

Estimated travel time: 49 mins from Lo Wu, 30 mins from Futian

Wanxiang Tiandi

A huge shopping complex with all the shops and chains of your dream in one place, Wanxiang Tiandi opened at the tail end of 2017 and is a great place to spend a day.

It is most famous for its 6-storey Eslite bookstore and the giant elephant. Admittedly, a lot of the shops are also seen in Hong Kong, but it’s more about the wide lanes and mall space, as well as the various cool restaurants!

Nearest station: Hi-Tech Park (7 mins walk)

Estimated travel time: 47 minutes from Lo wu, 34 minutes from Fuitan

Family fun shopping mall by day, nightclub district by night, Coco Park is only a few stations from Futian border. It is connected to the LinkCity Underground shopping mall, so it makes for a good extended stroll!

On our visit, there’s also a giant climbing structure for kids that makes me want to be 20 years younger.

Nearest station: Shopping Park 購物公園

Estimated travel time: 29 mins from Lo wu, 21 mins from Futian

9 Square Huaqiang North

Another great mall to visit, 9 Square is a sprawling complex near the Huaqiang Road station. With a pretty little platform on top, arcade, and various top restaurants. I particularly like the view of the surrounding skyscrapers and its proximity to both borders.

Nearest station: Huaqiang North station

Estimated travel time: 22 mins from Lo wu, 24 mins from Futian

A modern shopping mall close to the Lo Wu border, don’t confuse MICX City with Wanxiang Tiandi, which has basically the same name in Chinese! You can actually walk here from the border but it’s also only three station on the metro.

Nearest station: Grand Theater station 大戲院

Estimated travel time: 30 mins on foot from Lo wu or 15 mins metro

Hi, my name is Nam. I am 24 and spent half my life in Hong Kong and the other half in UK. I believe there's endless experience and beauty in the world and this is me chronicling how to experience the best at the best price.

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Table of contents

1-day itinerary, hong kong wetland park.

The Oct Harbour, Shenzhen - Marriott Executive Apartments

Shenzhen International Garden and Flower Expo Park

He xiangning art museum, top searches in shenzhen, popular road trips from shenzhen, what's the weather like in shenzhen.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Shenzhen for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Shenzhen in January
• Weather in Shenzhen in February
• Weather in Shenzhen in March
• Weather in Shenzhen in April
• Weather in Shenzhen in May
• Weather in Shenzhen in June
• Weather in Shenzhen in July
• Weather in Shenzhen in August
• Weather in Shenzhen in September
• Weather in Shenzhen in October
• Weather in Shenzhen in November
• Weather in Shenzhen in December

All road trips from Shenzhen

• Shenzhen to Bangkok drive
• Shenzhen to Hanoi drive
• Shenzhen to Guangzhou drive
• Shenzhen to Beijing drive
• Shenzhen to Shanghai drive
• Shenzhen to Siem Reap drive
• Shenzhen to Ho Chi Minh City drive
• Shenzhen to Hoi An drive
• Shenzhen to Xi'an drive
• Shenzhen to Pattaya drive
• Shenzhen to Xiamen drive
• Shenzhen to Phnom Penh drive
• Shenzhen to Chiang Mai drive
• Shenzhen to Luang Prabang drive
• Shenzhen to Halong Bay drive
• Shenzhen to Hue drive
• Shenzhen to Hangzhou drive
• Shenzhen to Yangshuo County drive
• Shenzhen to Zhuhai drive
• Shenzhen to Nha Trang drive
• Shenzhen to Chengdu drive
• Shenzhen to Yangon (Rangoon) drive
• Shenzhen to Guilin drive
• Shenzhen to Suzhou drive
• Shenzhen to Sanya drive
• Shenzhen to Hua Hin drive
• Shenzhen to Chiang Rai drive
• Shenzhen to Ninh Binh drive
• Shenzhen to Nanjing drive
• Shenzhen to Vientiane drive

Explore nearby places

• Boluo County
• Huidong County
• Longmen County
• Haifeng County
• Dongyuan County
• Fogang County
• Zijin County
• Xinfeng County
• Qingxin County

All related maps of Shenzhen

• Map of Shenzhen
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• Map of Zhuhai
• Map of Dongguan
• Map of Macau
• Map of Zhongshan
• Map of Huizhou
• Map of Boluo County
• Map of Huidong County
• Map of Zengcheng
• Map of Jiangmen
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• Map of Heshan
• Map of Conghua
• Map of Longmen County
• Map of Taishan
• Map of Shanwei
• Map of Haifeng County
• Map of Kaiping
• Map of Heyuan
• Map of Dongyuan County
• Map of Fogang County
• Map of Sihui
• Map of Qingyuan
• Map of Zijin County
• Map of Lufeng
• Map of Xinfeng County
• Map of Qingxin County
• Map of Gaoyao
• Map of Zhaoqing

Shenzhen throughout the year

• Shenzhen in January
• Shenzhen in February
• Shenzhen in March
• Shenzhen in April
• Shenzhen in May
• Shenzhen in June
• Shenzhen in July
• Shenzhen in August
• Shenzhen in September
• Shenzhen in October
• Shenzhen in November
• Shenzhen in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Shenzhen?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 1-Day Hong Kong Itinerary
• 1-Day Guangzhou Itinerary
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• 1-Day Foshan Itinerary
• 1-Day Zhongshan Itinerary

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Private Shenzhen Day Tour from Hong Kong

• Chinese Food Lunch in local Chinese Restaurant and drink is included
• Seat in coach from and return to Hong Kong and private car with driver in Shenzhen are included
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• China Visa fee is not included
• Prince Edward Station, Nathan Rd, Prince Edward, Hong Kong Prince Edward Station Exit C (meet at inside the Station） The seat in coach from Hong Kong to Shenzhen and return is around one hour (one way)
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
• Shenzhen Museum
• Dong Men Pedestrian Street
• OCT HARBOUR

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Prince Edward Station Nathan Rd, Prince Edward, Hong Kong Prince Edward Station Exit C (meet at inside the Station） The seat in coach from Hong Kong to Shenzhen and return is around one hour (one way) See address & details
• 1 Shenzhen Museum Stop: 90 minutes See details
• 2 Shenzhen Stop: 30 minutes See details
• 3 Dong Men Pedestrian Street Stop: 2 hours See details
• 4 甘坑客家古镇 Stop: 2 hours See details
• 5 OCT HARBOUR Stop: 2 hours See details
• You'll return to the starting point

More to explore in Hong Kong

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6 best day trips to take from Hong Kong

Are you looking for a quick break to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life? Whether you want to spend some time in nature or soak in the culture and history, there are plenty of places near Hong Kong perfect for a day trip.

Being a coastal city located at the southern tip of mainland China, Hong Kong has easy access to many neighbouring cities. Thanks to the city’s robust transportation system, many places are within reach by bus, ferry, or train. In addition, Hongkongers and tourists alike can take advantage of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge and the Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway station, which takes them to their destination with minimal effort.

Below, we round up some of the best places near Hong Kong that make for a great quick sojourn.

Please note: Buses, ferries, and trains run on a specific schedule. Therefore, checking the departing and arriving time before you travel is recommended. You can purchase tickets at the ports or the stations. For more information, visit the official websites linked in the “How to get there” section below.

The best day trips from Hong Kong

Macau is the most popular destination for a day trip near Hong Kong. Our sister SAR might be known for its casinos, but it’s also brimming with UNESCO heritage sites, which we don’t have in Hong Kong. While most Hongkongers know about the Ruins of St. Paul, Lou Kau Mansion and Guia Fortress are also perfect for history and architectural buffs. This sleepy city also boasts various cafes and restaurants, borrowing elements of Portuguese cuisine. Expect to see quaint antique shops, magnificent colonial buildings, and charming coffee shops between cobbled streets.

How to get there: Take the ferry from Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan. The trip takes about an hour. Click here to see the sailing schedule and fare. Alternatively, you also take the shuttle bus from the Hong Kong Port to Macau in 40 minutes.

Book ferry tickets to Macau here

Book The Venetian Macao here

Book these hotels in Macau in case you decide to spend the night

Shenzhen sits just across the border with mainland China, making it an easy choice for a day trip. Many Hongkongers flock here for shopping thanks to the cheap and affordable goods. Luckily, the famous Dongmen Pedestrian Shopping Street is just walking distance from Lo Wu station, the nearest stop in Hong Kong. The place is not only packed with shopping outlets but also food stalls. Those looking for something hip and creative should get to the OCT-LOFT complex, a former TV manufacturing base turned cultural space.

How to get there: Take the  high-speed train  from Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway station and reach your destination in 20 minutes. You can also ride the MTR and get off at Lo Wu station or Lok Ma Chau station.

Book JW Marriott Hotel Shenzhen here

Book these hotels in Shenzhen in case you decide to spend the night

While Zhuhai is closer to Macau, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge made travel to the city easier. Zhuhai is known for its beautiful coastlines, tropical beaches, and enchanting temples. Chill on the beaches of offshore islands like Dong’ao or Hebao, many of which are easily accessible by boat. Explore the bustling city centre and take your pick from the bars and restaurants on Lotus Road or stuff yourself with fresh seafood in Wanzai. We also recommend visiting the New Yuanming Palace, a replica of the same site in Beijing.

How to get there: Take the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau-Bridge shuttle bus for about 40 minutes. You can also board the high-speed ferry from Hong Kong China Ferry Terminal or the Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal. Another option is to take the train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway station, transfer to Guangzhou South station, and head to Zhuhai Railway station. The journey takes about two hours.

Book ferry tickets to Zhuhai here

Book InterContinental Zhuhai here

Book these hotels in Zhuhai in case you decide to spend the night

This buzzing metropolis served as the capital of China not once but thrice! One of the country’s largest cities, Guangzhou is loved for its sub-tropical climate. Considered the birthplace of Cantonese cuisine, it’s not surprising that Guangzhou has more restaurants than any other Chinese city. Besides being a food mecca, Guangzhou is also a shopping paradise and home to an array of temples.

How to get there: Take the high-speed train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway station to Guangzhou South Station. The ride takes 50 minutes.

Book The Westin Guangzhou here

Book these hotels in Guangzhou in case you decide to spend the night

Considered the hometown of martial arts, Foshan is a must for those interested in history and culture. Kung Fu masters such as Yip Man and Wong Fei Hung are from here. Foshan also boasts many examples of Lingnan architecture, such as Foshan Xintiandi, which has more than 20 historical preservations. Further, a trip to Foshan isn’t complete without visiting the Ancestor Temple, Nanfeng Kiln, and the Liang Garden.

How to get there: Take the high-speed train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway station to Foshan West Railway station. The journey takes about 90 minutes.

Book Oakwood Residence Foshan here

Book these hotels in Foshan in case you decide to spend the night

In recent years, Dongguan is slowly transforming into a travel hotspot for those seeking scenic sea views and interesting historical places. Dongguan is home to 800-year-old Nanshe and Tangwei villages that will make you travel back in time. With 94 historical buildings and 32 ancestral shrines, you will get an overview of the ancient Lingnan architecture. When here, do visit the Keyuan Garden and Hermit Villa as well.

How to get there: Take the high-speed train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway Station to Dongguan Humen Railway station. The travel time is about 40 to 60 minutes. Alternatively, you can take normal trains from the Hung Hom Railway station, which takes 70 minutes.

Book Citadines Songshan Lake Dongguan here

Book these hotels in Dongguan in case you decide to spend the night

Which city are you visiting next weekend?

(Hero and featured image credit: Steve Allen/Getty Images)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Answer: Macau, Shenzhen and Zhuhai are some of the best cities for a day trip near Hong Kong.

Answer: Take the ferry from Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan. The trip takes about an hour. Alternatively, you also take the shuttle bus from the Hong Kong Port to Macau in 40 minutes.

Jianne Soriano

An introvert at heart, Jianne has an immense passion for storytelling. This Filipino, Hong Kong-born native is a certified foodie and cinephile. When she’s not writing, you can find her chilling at cafes, watching movies, or travelling solo.

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• May 31, 2018

Day trip to Shenzhen: How to get to Shenzhen from Hong Kong?

Updated: Oct 24, 2022

Another popular day trip from Hong Kong is Shenzhen! Shenzhen is located in the Guangdong province of China. To get there from Hong Kong, you will need your PASSPORT since Hong Kong is a SAR of China.

Shenzhen is a bustling business, manufacturing, and technological hub and many travellers head to Shenzhen for business. At times, they may then cross over back to Hong Kong for some leisure time before flying back home. Travellers heading to Hong Kong with an extra day may also wish to visit Shenzhen for affordable shopping at the nearby mall. Here's our guide on how to get to Shenzhen from Hong Kong. There are multiple points of entry to Shenzhen (Luohu, Huanggang, Shenzhen bay) and we will be focussing more on the shopping areas for travellers to take a day trip to Shenzhen.

1. By MTR and Shenzhen Metro

Via Luohu Crossing

The cheapest way to get to Shenzhen is via MTR. From whenever you are, you'll want to get on the East Rail Line to Lo Wu station . At Lo Wu, you'll need to alight and walk (quite a bit) to the immigration building. The entire immigration process can take about 15 minutes all the way to an hour, depending on how crowded it is on the day of visit. Where possible, avoid peak hours like in the morning and in the evening. Depending on your passport, you may also need to have a visa. Do prepare it in advance to avoid spending too much time at the checkpoint.

After clearing the immigration, walk ahead to the Shenzhen metro, Luo Hu station. There will be plenty of signs to guide you there, otherwise, just follow the crowd! Using the Shenzhen metro, you can pretty much head anywhere in Shenzhen.

Should you just wish to have some cheap shopping, you can find the Luohu Commercial City right outside the immigration checkpoint! Here, there's simply everything ranging from clothes, jewellery, shoes, custom tailor stores, outdoor gear, and some electronics. They are also a huge centre for imitation goods (buy at your own risk). Besides shopping, there are also numeral restaurants and food options with your familiar Macdonalds and Ajisen Ramen.

Venturing off on foot, you'll then be able to find more shopping options. We really only had time to comb the Luohu Commercial City when we were there. Hopefully the next time we revisit Shenzhen, we'll be able to explore the other malls!

Via Huanggang Crossing

As compared to the Luohu crossing, this route takes you to the newer portion of Shenzhen. From whenever you are, you'll want to get on the East Rail Line to Lok Ma Chau station . However, there is nothing much when you exit Lok Ma Chau so we would only recommend this route if your destination is closer to the Huanggang/FuTian region.

2. Private MPV Transfer

For a more comfy ride to Shenzhen, and if you are travelling in a large group or carrying heavy luggages, consider hiring a private coach. It is pricey, but when shared amongst your family members or your friends, it costs about 159 SGD for a one way trip . You could also get a transfer from the Hong Kong airport itself to Shenzhen so that saves you the trip to head over to Hong Kong island / Kowloon!

If you are wondering, coach transfers are available but they often stop at Shenzhen Bay Port that is not that close to the shopping malls.

The ferry is a good way to get to Shenzhen as well, but again, they may be a bit further off from the shopping area. But, should you be wanting to head to Shenzhen from Hong Kong airport itself, this may be faster option.

From Hong Kong Airport, before heading out of immigration, head to the SkyPier ferry terminal. From there, you can get ferry tickets to Shenzhen's Fuyong (Bao’an Airport) Terminal or Shenzhen Shekou Terminal.

Have you gone to Shenzhen from Hong Kong? Share with us your experiences!

#DayTrip #TransportGuide

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How to Travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen by High Speed Train, Metro, and Ferry

Hong Kong and Shenzhen are two bustling metropolises, each with millions of residents and separated by a small river and international border. Travel between the two cities is both simple and complicated, since direct high-speed trains can make the journey in as little as 15 minutes—if you have the correct visa. The most important factor to determine what method you take depends on if you get your Chinese visa before arriving in Hong Kong or if you need a Visa on Arrival to China.

The high-speed train is the fastest method of travel between cities, but you'll need a valid Chinese visa before boarding the train (in other words, you need to obtain a visa in your country of origin). If you haven't planned ahead, you can also receive a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at special entry points that allows visitors to stay in Shenzhen for five days.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From Hong Kong to Shenzhen?

You can take the Hong Kong metro (MTR) from any part of the city to the border with Shenzhen, and this method can be used by visitors who already have a valid Chinese visa or who need a VOA. You need to get to the East Rail Line of the metro (or light blue line) and ride it all the way to one of the last two stops—Lo Wu or Lok Ma Chau. If you're coming from the center of Hong Kong, the trip takes about an hour to get to the border and costs 100$HKD (about $13). It's less expensive if you have an Octopus Card , or Hong Kong subway pass. Once you enter Shenzhen, you'll need to pay for the VOA if you don't already have one in addition to the fare for the Shenzhen metro. Both of these additional costs must be paid for in Chinese yuan and Hong Kong dollars will not be accepted.

If you need the VOA, Lo Wu is the more convenient location to choose because you can arrive on the metro, get your visa, and hop on the Shenzhen metro all within the same vicinity. If you take the metro to Lok Ma Chau and you need a VOA, you'll have to walk about 10 minutes to another office—Huanggang—to get the visa and there is no Shenzhen metro at that building.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Hong Kong to Shenzhen?

A high-speed train connects the futuristic West Kowloon Station in Hong Kong with Shenzhen in as little as 15 minutes. The two stations in Shenzhen are Futian and Shenzhenbei, and Futian is the main stop in the center of the city and most likely to be your destination. The exact price varies based on the exchange rate between the Hong Kong dollar and the Chinese yuan, but it's roughly $10 for a one-way ticket in second class. There are over 80 trains each day that make the route with trains leaving every five to 10 minutes. Not all trains stop in Futian, so make sure you confirm the route before boarding.

Before you get on the train, you'll pass through security and immigration in the Hong Kong station just like at an airport. There's no way to get a VOA if you are taking the high-speed train, so you'll already need a valid visa to enter Mainland China. These visas must be obtained in your country of residence so if you don't already have one, you don't be able to use the high-speed train to get to Shenzhen.

Is There a Ferry That Goes From Hong Kong to Shenzhen?

The ferry is the most expensive method for getting to Shenzhen and takes nearly as long as the metro, but taking a ride on the water is undeniably the most fun way to travel between the cities. Several companies offer ferry service leaving from the Hong Kong Macau Terminal located near the popular Victoria Harbour, and it takes about an hour to reach Shekou Port on the Shenzhen side. Ticket prices vary based on the company you choose and the type of ticket, but the cheapest fares start at about $20.

Shekou Port does offer VOA to visit Shenzhen, so visitors who haven't obtained a Chinese visa prior to the trip are able to take the ferry to Shenzhen without worry.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Shenzhen?

The most comfortable time to visit Shenzhen is from autumn through early spring. Just as with Hong Kong, the city experiences a sub-tropical climate and winter temperatures are pleasantly warm. In the summer months—roughly May to September—high temperatures are made even more unbearable by the oppressive humidity.

All of China also celebrates two week-long vacations known as Golden Week , first for Chinese New Year in late January or early February and then again in early October for National Day. During these popular travel periods, people are on the move all across the country, meaning that hotels and transit are usually booked up. If you're traveling during either Golden Week or National Day, make sure to confirm your reservations as early as possible.

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Shenzhen?

Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region of China and is treated as a separate country for all intents and purposes, so even though U.S. citizens can travel to Hong Kong without a visa, you will need one to enter Shenzhen in Mainland China. Getting a Chinese visa in the U.S. can be a headache and requires quite a few steps, but if you know your trip to Hong Kong is going to include an excursion to Shenzhen, it's usually worth the effort to do it in advance. For one, if you get a Chinese visa from your local consulate in the U.S., it will last you for multiple trips over a 10-year period while the Visa on Arrival is only good for visiting Shenzhen—and nowhere else—for five days. Also, you'll pay the same price regardless of which you get, so you're getting much more for your money's worth with the 10-year visa.

But for travelers who weren't able to get a visa beforehand or who prefer the simplicity of the VOA, make sure you enter Shenzhen at one of the VOA border crossings, such as the Lo Wu metro station or the Shekou Port ferry stop. You'll need your passport and the entry slip you received when entering Hong Kong, as well as the application fee in cash in Chinese yuan—not Hong Kong dollars. The process is usually quick and shouldn't take more than 10–20 minutes, but if you're traveling on a weekend or holiday, delays are possible. It's important to remember that the VOA is only valid for visiting Shenzhen; if you want to visit other parts of Mainland China, you'll need to obtain a Chinese visa in your country of residence.

Visa requirements, rules, and fees frequently change. Confirm the most up-to-date policies and prices before you head to the border.

What Is There to Do in Shenzhen?

Many people love to cross the border and visit Shenzhen for shopping, since prices are much lower than in neighboring Hong Kong. Whether you're looking for clothing, electronics, jewelry, or anything else, you can find it in this megacity. The Luohu Commercial City is one of the largest shopping centers in the city, and it's conveniently located next to Hong Kong at the Lo Wu border crossing. Since Shenzhen is a relatively new city—growing from a small seaside town to a city of 12 million in just the last few decades—there isn't a lot of history, but the city more than makes up for it with cultural offerings such as the Splendid Chinese Folk Village. And even though Hong Kong is a food mecca, Shenzhen offers its own culinary treats with plenty of delicious Cantonese restaurants to try.

The best way to get to Shenzhen from Hong Kong Airport is to take the ferry. It takes 30 minutes and costs $27 for an economy adult ticket.

A taxi from Shenzhen to Hong Kong costs around 750 yuan ($114).

You can take the Hong Kong metro (MTR) to the border with Shenzhen. You need to get to the East Rail Line of the metro (or light blue line) and ride it all the way to one of the last two stops—Lo Wu or Lok Ma Chau. The trip takes about an hour from the center of Hong Kong to get to the border and costs $100 Hong Kong dollars (about $13).

Visiting China From Hong Kong

Getting Around Hong Kong: Guide to Public Transportation

Traveling Between Hong Kong and China

How to Travel From Shenzhen to Shenzhen Airport by Train, Bus, and Car

How to Get a Shenzhen Visa in Hong Kong

How to Travel From Hong Kong to Shanghai by Train and Plane

How to Travel From Hong Kong to Guangzhou by Train, Bus, and Car

Essential Guide to Guangzhou East Railway Station

The 5 Best Day Trips to Take From Hong Kong

Top 10 Foods to Try in Hong Kong

The Best Places to Shop in Shenzhen

Guide to the Best Spas in Hong Kong

Visa Requirements for Macao

Macau International Airport Guide

Your Trip to Hong Kong: The Complete Guide

Where to Stay Between Hong Kong Island or Kowloon

8 unmissable day trips from Hong Kong

Feb 20, 2024 • 6 min read

Explore quiet corners and bustling megacities on a day trip from Hong Kong © Calvin Chan Wai Meng / Getty Images

Hong Kong is one of the world's great urban playgrounds, but this place has another side to its personality beyond the gleaming skyscrapers and shopping malls.

Three-quarters of the territory is green, dotted with hiking trails and secluded beaches, not to mention dozens of outlying islands bobbing in the South China Sea, some just an easy ferry ride away. With the mainland megacities of Shenzhen and Guangzhou connected to central Hong Kong by high-speed train, the possibilities for wider exploration are vast.

Here are eight of the best one-day excursions to enhance your next Hong Kong adventure.

1. Take a cable car to Po Lin Monastery and the Big Buddha

Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

A pilgrimage to the serene Tian Tan Buddha in the lush hills of Lantau is mandatory for Hong Kong newbies. Clocking in at 34m (112ft) high (podium included), this bronze icon faces the Po Lin Monastery, a sprawling Buddhist complex linked to Tung Chung (the main town on Lantau) by cable car. The scenic 5.7km (3.5-mile) journey offers sweeping views of Tung Chung Bay and, for plane-spotters, the bustle of Hong Kong Airport.

How to get to Po Lin Monastery from Central: Ride the MTR from Hong Kong station to Tung Chung (35 minutes) and then take the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car for the final leg of the journey (25 minutes). You can also take the ferry to Mui Wo and then get bus 2.

2. Admire Hong Kong's last remaining stilt houses at Tai O

Travel time: 1 hour and 45 minutes

Historically the home of the Tanka boat people, the fishing village of Tai O is an atmospheric maze of back alleys and street markets, but its big draw is a photogenic cluster of traditional stilt houses teetering over the water, some with a history spanning back 200 years. To extend your trip, consider a night's stay at the boutique-styled Tai O Heritage Hotel , housed in a converted police station built in 1902.

How to get to Tai O from Central: Ride the MTR from Hong Kong station to Tung Chung (33 minutes) and then take bus 11 to Tai O (one hour). Otherwise, take the ferry to Mui Wo and then change to bus 1.

3. Hang out on Lamma, Hong Kong's hippy island

Travel time: 30 minutes

With its hidden beaches, car-free paths and countercultural vibes, laidback Lamma Island is the perfect tonic for when the hustle of Hong Kong gets too much. Yung Shue Wan is the main village, with cafes, vegetarian restaurants and new-age shops aplenty. Across the island at Sok Kwu Wan , take your pick from a string of seafood restaurants serving dishes like steamed whole grouper or fried clams with black bean sauce.

How to get to Lamma Island from Central: Take a ferry from Central's Outlying Islands ferry terminal (pier 4) to either Yung Shue Wan pier or Sok Kwu Wan pier.

4. Explore the Portuguese heritage of Macau

Macau might be known as China's Las Vegas for its casinos, but the island was a Portuguese colony for 300 years and retains pockets of European colonial architecture. Admire the ruins of the Church of St Paul , a 17th-century cathedral, graze on Portuguese custard tarts in the old town center and then ride the cable car up to Guia Fortress , a historic military complex containing China's first lighthouse and a chapel built by Portuguese nuns.

How to get to Macau from Central: Take the MTR one stop to Sheung Wan and then catch a high-speed ferry from the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal to the Macau Maritime Ferry Terminal (one hour).

5. Ride the bullet train to mainland China

Travel time: 45 minutes

The Chinese megacity of Shenzhen is just minutes away from Hong Kong by bullet train. Beyond the bragging rights of making it to the mainland, Shenzhen offers visitors dazzling modern architecture; a thriving arts, shopping and dining scene; and some deliciously retro theme parks. Best of all, you can pick up a temporary visa at the border crossing with minimal fuss, though you're not permitted to travel beyond the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone.

How to get to Shenzhen from Central: If you already have a visa, take the MTR to West Kowloon station, go through immigration and then catch the high-speed train to Futian Station (14 minutes). If you need a visa, ride the MTR to the Luohu border crossing instead (one hour) and get a five-day visa on arrival (tourists from most countries are eligible) on the spot.

6. Marvel at the otherworldly scenery of Hong Kong Global Geopark

Travel time: 2 hours

Hong Kong Global Geopark , a UNESCO-listed natural playground, is home to stunning and surreal volcanic rock columns and sea caves. Tour operators run boat, kayak and SUP excursions into the Geopark, but you can also take a trip to the High Island Reservoir East Dam  and get up close without leaving dry land. The Volcano Discovery Center  in Sai Kung advises on the best ways to explore.

How to get to Hong Kong Global Geopark from Central: Take the MTR to Choi Hung station (30 minutes) and then take Hong Kong Green Minibus 1 to Sai Kung Pier and the Geopark Volcano Discovery Center (35 minutes).

7. Go temple and beach hopping on Cheung Chau Island

Travel time: 1 hour

With its white-sand beaches, characterful villages and Taoist temples, Cheung Chau Island makes a delightful day trip from central Hong Kong. Be sure to hike or bike your way to the island's southwestern corner to chill by the Reclining Rocks , picnic optional. The usually tranquil island packs out each year for the Cheung Chau Bun Festival, a spectacular event of parades, "floating children" (kids standing on parade scaffolding carried through the streets) and a race up bamboo towers to snatch the sacred bun.

How to get to Cheung Chau from Central: Take a ferry from Central's Outlying Islands ferry terminal (pier 5), either regular (one hour) or fast (40 minutes).

8. Hike and swim in unspoiled Sai Kung

One of the last havens left in Hong Kong for hikers and swimmers, Sai Kung offers trails through pristine scenery to secluded coves and picture-perfect beaches. The Tai Long Wan Hiking Trail passes four gorgeous beaches with some steep climbs and beautiful views along the route. You'll find dining spots at Sai Wan and Ham Tin beaches, and it's even possible to camp on the sand, or you can head back to Sai Kung Town by speedboat and have dinner on the waterfront.

How to get to Sai Kung from Central: Ride the MTR to Choi Hung station (30 minutes) and then take Hong Kong Green Minibus 1 to Sai Kung Pier (35 minutes). Take a taxi to the High Island Reservoir East Dam (30 minutes) for the full hike, or get a taxi to Sai Wan Pavilion for a one-hour hike to the beach.

This article was first published October 2022 and updated February 2024

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How to Travel from Shenzhen to Hong Kong

Shenzhen to Hong Kong distance is as long as 50 kilometers (31 miles). It's very easy to travel between them because of the close distance and diverse modes of transportation. The best travel method is to take high speed train. Passengers can also choose Shenzhen – Hong Kong long-distance bus or ferry.   

1. Best  Shenzhen to Hong Kong High Speed Train : 15-25min, CNY 68 – 75

2. shenzhen to hong kong ferry: 30min at least, from cny 90, 3. cheapest way: subway or city bus: 1.5 - 2h, 4. shenzhen to hong kong bus: 1-2h, cny 37 - 170.

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Though separated from Hong Kong by the 37km-long Sham Chun River, Shenzhen is just an easy train, bus or car ride away. As of 2023, there are six major cross-boundary checkpoints, and you can reach them by public transport from almost anywhere in Hong Kong. Take your pick!   

Before putting together your itinerary, however, make sure you pay attention to the English translations and romanisations of checkpoint names; they may vary depending on whether they’re phonetically romanised from Putonghua or Cantonese. For example, Lo Wu (Cantonese) could also be spelled as Luo Hu (Putonghua); while Shenzhenbei (Putonghua) is also Shenzhen North. The best way to avoid making mistakes is simply to pull out a map and double check the location.  

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From the airport

Inbound travellers heading to Shenzhen via Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) may be tempted to hop onto a transfer flight, but since the two cities are so close in proximity, direct flights are nil. Instead, take advantage of our seamless air-to-sea transfers .

You can book a combined flight and ferry ticket with us, as you would any other Cathay Pacific ticket – simply enter Shenzhen Shekou Cruise Home Port (ZYK) or Shenzhen Airport Ferry Terminal (FYG) as your destination.* Both your flight and ferry will be under one booking, and your luggage will be checked through to your destination. 

Upon arrival at HKIA, go directly to Transfer Area E2 to collect your ferry ticket and board your ferry at the SkyPier. The service to Shekou runs roughly every 1-2 hours and takes only 30 minutes, while there are four ferries to Shenzhen Airport each day, getting you there in around 50 minutes. 

Don’t have strong sea legs? You can instead hop onto a cross-boundary coach service at the Mainland Transport Centre at Terminal 1. These coaches can take you to ports like Huanggang, Sha Tau Kok, Shenzhen Bay and Heung Yuen Wai as well as the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Zhuhai Port.

From the city by highspeed railway 

If you want both speed and affordability, your best bet is to travel to Shenzhen by high-speed train. As of 14 August 2023, trains run as frequently as every five minutes from the Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway Station to either Futian – which takes 14 minutes – or Shenzhenbei – an 18-minute ride – or both. Tickets can be purchased in-person at the station, or in advance on the Railway12306 website or app, available on iOS and Android . However, please note that tickets bought on Railway12306 require identity verification with a Mainland Chinese phone number or in-person at the station, and the English booking site and app are only applicable for valid foreign passports. Learn more here . 

The first train departs at 7.03am and the last at 10.35pm. Fares are set in RMB, so the price in Hong Kong dollars may fluctuate according to conversion rates. However, a second-class adult ticket generally ranges from HK$75-85; while a first-class ticket costs HK$119-131: those additional dollars get you your own reading light and audio output that connects to in-train music and TV channels.

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From the city by MTR or bus

The northernmost stations on Hong Kong’s MTR East Rail Line – Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau – will take you straight to a Shenzhen cross-boundary checkpoint.  Lo Wu checkpoint  closes at midnight and  Lok Ma Chau Spur Line checkpoint  closes at 10.30pm. 

Passengers may also opt to use the Hong Kong-Zhuhai Macao Bridge clearance point, reachable via  “A” route airport buses  operated by Citybus, New Lantau Bus and Long Win bus services.  

Night owls, meanwhile, can catch  shuttle buses and coaches  that connect to Shenzhen’s Huanggang from Lok Ma Chau (both 24-hour ports) or from convenient urban locations like Mong Kok, Kwun Tong, Wan Chai, Tsuen Wan, Tuen Mun, Tin Shui Wai and Kam Sheung Road. Fares and timetables differ depending on location.  

From the city by private pick-up 

If you’re looking for an even more convenient option, it’s worth looking into private companies offering ride services around your neighbourhood. Kwoon Chung Bus Holdings can get you to Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, or Lo Wu, Shenzhen Bay, or Huanggang from various pick-up points in the city, ranging from Hong Kong Disneyland to K11 Musea. Shopping malls like Elements and Citigate Outlets also have their own cross-border coaches that run to various ports in Shenzhen.  

Private car hires are also available: SkyLimo ’s door-to-door deluxe service comes complete with your own English-speaking chauffeur. Since 2023, Hong Kong residents who are the registered owners of their cars can apply to drive across the Hong Kong-Zhuhai Bridge . This privilege, however, only extends to non-commercial private cars with eight or fewer seats – including the driver’s – and which are shorter than six metres in length. The vehicle must have all vehicle licences and permits relevant to both Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland; it can only stay for 30 consecutive days upon entry and no more than 180 days within a year. 

* If you’re departing from Taiwan China, you’ll need to book your flight ticket with us and your ferry ticket via the ferry operator. Before dropping your bags at your departing airport, please let us know that you’ve purchased tickets separately and we’ll make the necessary arrangements. 

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Best Weekend Trips from Shenzhen

Strongly Recommended for Expats in Shenzhen and Those Who Want Extension Tours from Shenzhen

While the prosperous Shenzhen has lots of fun offered in the city, they are all of urban style. You may want some fresh breaks . No any other city in China boasts a more unique location than Shenzhen. Is it located in the mainland? Yes. And thus it is a typically Chinese and is close to nearby mainland cities like Guangzhou, etc. However, it is also only one metro station away from Hong Kong, the city with strong international flavor. The unbeatable location of Shenzhen gives the city plenty of opportunities for short weekend tours. You can travel further north to Guangzhou, Jiangmen, Foshan, Guilin, Yangshuo, Xiamen, etc. Besides, you can travel further south to Hong Kong, Macau, etc. It takes you less than 4 hours (1 hour or so to Hong Kong) to any one of these cities by bullet train.

How does a Shenzhen Weekend Trip work? We China Discovery are professional in planning Shenzhen Weekend Trips. We know everything essential for such short vacations, including popular tourist attractions, best transfers, required visa policies, etc. Furthermore, we can maximize your weekend hours to help you get as many enjoyments as possible that you are looking for. Besides, there is no hurry and no troublesome shopping traps!

Here we’ve put together the ultimate bucket list of 6 Best Shenzhen Gateways to spend your weekend in Shenzhen. Choose your best picks and travel with us NOW!

Perfect for people who are on business, layover with the 144-hour visa free transit. You will take a short 2-day trip to savor the essence of Guangzhou, like Lingnan culture, old commercial history, modern urban view, fresh and delicious Cantonese food!

Highlights :

Enjoy one full day trip from Hong Kong to Macau by ferry with wonderful experiences - skyline, niho, culture, history, markets, temples, shopping, casinos and much more!

Start the picturesque Li River cruise with in-depth Yangshuo countryside exploration! All are included in a short 2-day tour! Let's indulge in the most beautiful rivers and mountains in the world!

2 days trip to discover Xiamen - Garden City on the Sea with architectural and cultural savory of UNESCO WOrld Heritage at Gulangyu and Fujian Tulou in Nanjing County in real leisure pace!

Foshan Day Tour is specially designed for visitors who want a day trip from the nearby Guangzhou to enjoy all highlights of in the ceneter of Lingnan culture, like Lingnan architectural decorations, lion dance with martial arts, relics and kiln from 5 centuries ago, and so on!

Highlights : Ancestral Temple, Lion Dance, Ancient Nanfeng Kiln, Lingnan Tiandi

If you are planning a trip to China’s most beautiful mountain – Huangshan but only have 2 days for it, you need an awesome itinerary to see and explore as much as you can in a short time, and package of tour services which take care of transfer, hotel, guide, etc. so that you can focus 100% on enjoying the best highlights of Huangshan.

Highlights : Huangshan Bright Summit, Lion Peak, West Sea Grand Canyon, Sunrise, Hongcun Ancient Village

Other Recommended Weekend Trips from Shenzhen

Weekends never end, so does the weekend trips from Shenzhen. There are always teeming places to go, ancient sites to see, quiet town to explore, beautiful mountain to hike, delicious food to try. All of them locate around Shenzhen. We have designed some valuable trips for you. All tailored for that perfect weekend getaway!

Jingdezhen / Wuyuan

Wuyuan, located in the north of Jiangxi Province, is known as "the most beautiful village in China". It draws pleasing seasonal scenery and unique local culture. When spring comes, Huangling in Wuyuan, known as one of the "four major flower seas in China", will welcome a large number of tourists and photography enthusiasts to witness the vast seas of rape flowers. While in autumn days, Wuyuan turns to a world of colors. Locals dry their crops, such as corn and hot pepper, on the roofs, which create a spectacular experience for visitors. Wuyuan is one of the best preserved places of Huizhou ancient architecture in China, known as "Ancient Architecture Museum". The Hui style buildings with white walls and black tiles also add a sense of antique flavor to Wuyuan.

“Eating in Guangzhou!” This 3 days Guangzhou tour is particularly made for foodies to savor most of top must-eat gourmets, such as Dim Sum (Cantonese morning tea pastries), Cantonese Char Siu, sweet soups, and so forth on the most well-known food streets and top best old restaurants. Furthermore, as a food and culinary culture discovery, this tour will take you to see the local popular market to see the real food materials and figure out why and how Cantonese people keep health with high talent. Furthermore, our local guide will take you to see the must-see Yuexiu Park, Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Huacheng Square, Xiguan Ancient House, and more to learn the interesting history of this city and its prominent success as a world top metropolis in classic and leisure pace!

Zhuhai is a newly built city with a lot of modern attractions. Blessed by an abundance of blue water and a long shoreline with beautiful sand beaches, it has become one of the best coastal cities in China.

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The Best Day Trips from Shenzhen

Shenzhen is an extraordinary city with a wealth of sights and activities available. But, positioned in the Pearl River Delta, it’s also conveniently located near several great alternative destinations that take no time at all to visit. Here are our favourite day trips out of the metropolis.

Of all Shenzhen’s neighbours, Hong Kong should come first on the list of places to visit. The Special Administrative Region is just a border crossing away, but provides a very different experience to that of Shenzhen. The former British colony is a home to unforgettably beautiful outlying islands, a world class art scene, and an extremely foreigner friendly way of life. Bear in mind that you’ll need to convert your cash to Hong Kong Dollars.

Just across the Pearl River estuary from Shenzhen is up and coming travel destination Zhuhai , which is known for its charming, palm tree lined coasts and tranquil islands. Like Shenzhen, Zhuhai is a Special Economic Zone, though it started off as a group of fishing villages over thirty years ago. It’s also becoming something of a party alternative to pricier Hong Kong and Macau. Zhuhai, Guangdong, China

Zhuhai (c) C2 Ringo / freeimages.com

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2. Guangzhou

A few hours away by coach is bustling Guangzhou , China’s third largest city. With a history stretching back millennia, it has long provided a hub for trading and culture exchange, and has also seen its fair share of revolutions and reform. Formerly called Canton, the city has a great memorial dedicated to China’s founding father, Sun Yat-Sen, alongside several other unforgettable sights. Guangzhou, Guangdong,China

Guangzhou’s old world charms (c) Jakob Montrasio / Flickr

Technically a city in its own right, Foshan is connected to Guangzhou by its metro and also warrants a visit. Foshan is perhaps best known for being the birthplace of Wing Chun Kung Fu. Bruce Lee’s legendary trainer Ip Man started his career in this quirky city. It is also home to the thousand year old Zumiao temple. Foshan, Guangdong, China

Foshan has a long history with ceramics (c) xiquinhosilva / Flickr

4. Kaiping and Dialou villages

Famous for its towers dating back to the the Qing dynasty, Kaiping is a coach trip out of Shenzhen well worth making. Called dialous , these fortified dwellings, nestled among the verdant hills are UNESCO world heritage sites. Remember to wear comfortable shoes if you plan to get the full experience climbing these towers. Kaiping, Jiangmen, Guangdong, China

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Singapore, Shenzhen can boost cooperation in digital trade, says DPM Heng

BEIJING/HONG KONG – Singapore and Shenzhen should strengthen cooperation on a bilateral project that promotes cross-border digital trade and data flows, said Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat.

The Singapore-China (Shenzhen) Smart City Initiative (SCI) marks its fifth anniversary in 2024, and both sides should “take it to the next level”, DPM Heng told Shenzhen Mayor Qin Weizhong in a morning meeting in the southern Chinese tech hub on April 12.

DPM Heng, who is also Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies, is on a six-day official visit to China to explore ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation. After a series of meetings in Beijing from April 7, he arrived in Shenzhen on April 11 and made his last stop in Hong Kong on April 12.

The SCI was launched during DPM Heng’s last visit to China in 2019 . It aims to strengthen digital and business linkages between Singapore and Shenzhen, with a focus on boosting digital connectivity, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, as well as developing talent exchanges.

The project also seeks to create opportunities for companies on both sides to tap markets in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area and South-east Asia.

DPM Heng described the SCI as a “very important pathfinder for cross-border digital trade and data flows”, which does so “by piloting projects to experiment with how we can do this well”.

“Innovative government policy will be necessary for us to support companies’ innovation,” he added.

Mr Qin said that while the SCI had the words “smart city” in its name, the bulk of bilateral cooperation under its ambit was focused on trade.

Mr Qin co-chairs a committee that implements the initiative, alongside Singapore’s Permanent Secretary for Communications and Information Joseph Leong.

Under the SCI, both sides are working on projects that facilitate paperless cross-border trade, such as through a mutual recognition of electronic bills of lading – legal documents accompanying shipments used in customs clearances.

A “cross-border trade big data platform”, which is to explore the exchange of trade data to improve the efficiency of two-way trade, has also been announced.

DPM Heng affirmed the strong economic relationship between Singapore and Shenzhen, a city of more than 17 million people in Guangdong province.

Trade between Singapore and Shenzhen reached about US$11 billion (S$15 billion) in 2023, up 25 per cent from the previous year, he said. This is almost half of the trade in 2023 between Singapore and Guangdong – the Republic’s top provincial trading partner in China for the last 35 years.

Many Singapore companies have also invested in Shenzhen, DPM Heng noted. Foreign direct investment from Singapore to Shenzhen amounted to about 580 million yuan (S$110.9 million) in 2023, an increase of about 50 per cent from a year earlier.

While in Shenzhen, DPM Heng visited several companies on April 11, which he described to Mr Qin as being “at the forefront of research and innovation” in areas such as financial services, advanced manufacturing and drug discovery. These include XtalPi, a technology start-up that uses artificial intelligence to discover compounds that can be developed into new drugs.

He also had dinner with a group of business executives from the city. They discussed how companies from Singapore and Shenzhen could work together on technological innovation and enterprise development, he said in a Facebook post.

Concluded my visit to Beijing and am now in Shenzhen. I was last here in 2019. Shenzhen is located within the Greater... Posted by Heng Swee Keat on  Thursday, April 11, 2024

In Hong Kong, DPM Heng met the city’s top leader, Chief Executive John Lee, and reaffirmed the close and longstanding relations between the two cities, discussing ways to improve cooperation.

“As global cities and financial hubs, Singapore and Hong Kong share many similarities and challenges,” DPM Heng said in a Facebook post. “There is scope for us to do more together in areas of mutual interest such as trade and investment, innovation and research, to address the many issues that are important to our peoples.”

He also expressed confidence in Hong Kong’s continued development and prosperity under the “one country, two systems” framework. This refers to the principle under which Beijing has promised Hong Kong a high degree of autonomy that lets it retain its own systems unique from that of mainland China.

Mr Lee said he was pleased to meet DPM Heng again since they last met during his visit to Singapore in July 2023.

He thanked Singapore for its continued support for Hong Kong’s early accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, and noted that Singapore has consistently been Hong Kong’s largest trading partner in Asean, with bilateral trade in goods between the two cities amounting to HK$394.7 billion (S$68.5 billion) in 2023.

Hong Kong would continue to make every effort to strengthen its multifaceted cooperation with Singapore, he said, particularly in green and digital economies and other emerging industries.

Happy to meet Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee. We last met during his visit to Singapore in July last year. As... Posted by Heng Swee Keat on  Friday, April 12, 2024

DPM Heng returned to Singapore later on April 12.

The six-day trip is his first to China since October 2019, and the latest in a series of high-level official exchanges between Singapore and China after bilateral ties were upgraded in April 2023. 

He was accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Research Foundation, Ministry of Trade and Industry, as well as the Prime Minister’s Office.

In a Facebook post on April 12 at the end of his trip, DPM Heng said he had “a fruitful work trip” and looked forward to “keeping up the good momentum of bilateral exchanges and strengthening our cooperation with China, including at the regional and global levels, for the benefit of all our peoples”.

Wrapped up a fruitful work trip to Beijing, Shenzhen and Hong Kong. As a small open economy Singapore strives to build... Posted by Heng Swee Keat on  Friday, April 12, 2024

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