Family Fun In Shenzhen: Top Things To Do, Theme Parks, Culture, Shopping, And Dining

Window Of The World

Window of the World Shenzhen is a vast theme park divided into eight zones. It features detailed replicas of iconic landmarks such as the Egyptian Pyramids, Taj Mahal, Leaning Tower of Pisa, and Angkor Wat. Visiting this park allows families to experience famous global sites in a single day. With various amusement rides and attractions, it offers fun for both children and adults. The park is open daily from 9:00 am to 10:30 pm, and tickets range from ¥100 to ¥220.

Window Of The World, No.9037, Shen Nan Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, https://www.sz.gov.cn/en_szgov/

Shenzhen Happy Valley

Shenzhen Happy Valley is a large modern theme park in the Nanshan District, covering 350,000 square meters. It features nine themed areas, including Spanish Square, Cartoon City, Mt. Adventure, Gold Mine Town, Shangri-la Woods, Sunshine Beach, Typhoon Bay, Playa Maya Water Park, and Happy Times. The park offers nearly 100 exciting games and rides for adults and children and daily performances of magic, acrobatics, and extreme sports. Open all year round, the park is best enjoyed with a visit of about three hours. Easily accessible by metro or bus, Shenzhen Happy Valley promises a fun-filled day for the entire family.

Shenzhen Happy Valley, Guang Dong Sheng, Shenzhen Shi, Fu Tian Qu, https://sz.happyvalley.cn/

Lizhi Park

Lizhi or Lichee Park, one of the earliest parks in Shenzhen, is named after its forest of over 500 old lychee trees. The park features beautiful scenery with lakes, betel trees, pavilions, and bridges. It's a popular spot for relaxation and entertainment, especially when the lychees mature, turning the park into a vibrant red cloud of fruit. Families can enjoy boat rides on the lake and participate in various cultural events held throughout the year. Every weekend, the park hosts interest groups such as English corners, traditional opera enthusiasts, and Tai Chi practitioners, making it a lively and engaging destination for all ages.

Lizhi Park, 1001 Hongling Middle Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, +86 755 8209 5655, https://maps.app.goo.gl/

Splendid China Folk Village

Splendid China Folk Village in Shenzhen is a theme park divided into two areas: Splendid China Miniature Park and China Folk Culture Village. The park features 82 replicas of iconic Chinese landmarks, allowing visitors to explore China's rich history and culture in one day. It also has 27 ethnic villages built at a 1:1 scale, providing insights into the customs and traditions of China's diverse ethnic groups. With nearly 100 attractions and daily cultural performances, this park offers families a fun and educational experience. Open daily from 9:00 am to 9:30 pm.

Splendid China Folk Village, 9005, Shennan Avenue, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, +86 138 2368 2850, https://www.chinadiscovery.com/guangdong/shenzhen/splendid-china-folk-village.html

OCT Harbour

OCT Harbor is a palm-lined lifestyle complex in Shenzhen, reminiscent of California, set around artificial lakes and fountains. This expansive area offers upmarket dining, nightlife, and shopping, with plenty of attractions for kids, including a vast Hello Kitty emporium and an IMAX cinema. Fireworks and laser shows after nightfall add to the holiday atmosphere. Covering 1.25 million square meters, OCT Harbor combines culture, ecology, tourism, and entertainment. Located in the Shenzhen Bay central business district, it features the country's first international waterfront shopping complex, a large-scale multimedia water show theatre, and a high-end cultural and commercial exhibition center. Annual events like the OCT Carnival and Dragon Boat Festival and the "Mangrove Groove" water-themed stage show make OCT Harbor a must-visit!

OCT Harbour, No.8, Baishi Road East, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, +86 755 2690 1666, https://maps.app.goo.gl/

Shenzhen Bay Park

Shenzhen Bay Park, a 13-kilometer seaside urban park, offers a blend of nature, recreation, and stunning views. Stretching along the southern coast of Shenzhen, it spans 108 hectares and includes the Shenzhen Bay Coastal Recreation Zone and the Hongshulin Coastal Ecological Park. The latter is part of the Hongshulin Nature Reserve, home to endangered bird species and mangroves. Opened in 2011, the park is vehicle-free, featuring cycle paths, picnic spaces, and panoramic views of the Shenzhen skyline and Hong Kong. Highlights include birdwatching from October to April, scenic sunrises and sunsets, and a 9km bicycle trail.

Shenzhen Bay Park, Nanshan, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, https://maps.app.goo.gl/

Lianhuashan Park

Lianhuashan Park, Shenzhen's largest and most famous park, covers 150 hectares and is a top destination for tourists and residents. Its central location, abundant greenery, and serene atmosphere make it a favorite spot. Attractions include the kite square, peach grove, and a viewing platform with stunning views of the civic center and downtown Shenzhen. A statue of Deng Xiaoping stands at the peak, reachable via a 15-minute hike. Families love the wide-open spaces for picnics, kite flying, and playing sports. Nearby, Upper Hills offers dining and shopping, easy access to the CBD, and cultural landmarks like the Civic Center and Shenzhen Library.

Lianhuashan Park, 6030 Hong Li Lu, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, +86 755 8306 7950, https://maps.app.goo.gl/

Dafen Oil Painting Village

Dafen Oil Painting Village, located in the suburb of Buji, Longgang, is an artists' enclave known for its large-scale production of replica masterworks and original art since 1989. Initiated by painter Huang Jiang, the village evolved into a specialized hub where thousands of artists replicate famous paintings by Van Gogh, Da Vinci, Warhol, and others. Families visiting Dafen can explore numerous galleries and witness artists at work, providing a unique cultural experience. The village has become a significant tourist attraction, with 8,000 residents producing millions of paintings annually, blending traditional artistry with modern techniques.

Dafen Oil Painting Village, Longgang, Shenzhen, art@dafennet.com, https://www.dafennet.com/

Fairy Lake Botanical Garden, Shenzhen & Chinese Academy of Sciences

Fairy Lake Botanical Garden in Shenzhen's Luohu district spans 588 hectares, nestled between Wutong Mountain and the Shenzhen reservoir. Established in 1983 and opened to the public in 1988, it combines scientific research, education, and tourism. The garden aims to showcase plant beauty, promote botanical knowledge, and preserve plant diversity. Rated as a national AAAA scenic spot, it attracts over two million visitors annually. With more than 12 themed gardens, including the Magnolia Garden, Desert Plant Area, and Bonsai Garden, and six scenic areas like the Lake Area and Fossil Forest Area, it offers families a rich educational experience.

Fairy Lake Botanical Garden, Shenzhen & Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.160, Fairy Lake Botanical Gardens Road, Luohu District, Shenzhen, +86 755 2573 8430, 1710832824@qq.com, https://www.szbg.org/english/

Wutong Mountain

Wutong Mountain, the tallest in Shenzhen at 943.7 meters, is located near the border of Luohu and Yantian districts. This state-level urban scenic area features stunning landscapes combining mountains, sea, and lake views, offering visitors a glimpse of Shenzhen and Hong Kong. The main attractions are the Big Wutong and Little Wutong peaks, with the former being the highest in Shenzhen. The mountain is rich in biodiversity and provides ecological and leisure activities. Families can enjoy hiking to the peaks, exploring diverse flora and fauna, and visiting the statue of Deng Xiaoping, a key figure in modern Shenzhen's development. The park's expansive green spaces are ideal for picnics and outdoor activities.

Wutong Mountain, Luohu District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, +86 755 2515 2005, https://maps.app.goo.gl/

Guangdong Futian Mangrove Nature Reserve

The Guangdong Futian Mangrove Nature Reserve, located along the northeastern coast of Shenzhen Bay, is one of China's six mangrove reserves, covering 40% of the area's 368 hectares. This estuarine habitat, where rivers meet the sea, features extensive intertidal mudflats and dense mangrove forests. It's a vital stopover for migratory birds on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, with nearly 35,000 birds recorded between 2017 and 2021. The reserve is home to threatened plants like Chinese agarwood and small persimmon, vulnerable species such as the Chinese cobra, and rare waterbirds including Baer’s pochard and yellow-breasted bunting. The subtropical monsoon climate and frequent typhoons highlight the mangroves' role in carbon sequestration and coastal protection, making it an essential site for biodiversity and environmental conservation.

Guangdong Futian Mangrove Nature Reserve, Binhai Boulevard, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, https://maps.app.goo.gl/

Dameisha Beach

Dameisha Beach, located in Mirs Bay, Yantian District, is the longest beach in Shenzhen, stretching 1,800 meters. Opened to the public in 1999, this popular destination offers various activities, including swimming, horse riding, and parasailing. Visitors can also stroll along the scenic seaside plank road or hold a barbecue party. The beach features Sun Square and Moon Square, providing amenities like restaurants, shops, lockers, and showers. With its beautiful views and numerous recreational options, Dameisha Beach is an ideal spot for a family day out, though it can get crowded on weekends and holidays.

Dameisha Beach, 33 Yanmei Road, Yantian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, https://maps.app.goo.gl/

Shenzhen Museum

Founded in 1981, Shenzhen Museum is the city's first cultural museum and spans over 60,000 square meters. It includes four main sites: the Shenzhen Museum of History and Folk Culture, the Shenzhen Museum of Ancient Art, the Shenzhen Reform and Opening-up Exhibition Hall, and the Former Site of Dongjiang River Guerrilla Command Headquarters. The museum integrates collection, preservation, research, display, and education, housing over 45,000 items, including 5,700 precious relics. It has received numerous national honors and is vital in preserving and showcasing Shenzhen's rich history, culture, and reform journey through its permanent and thematic exhibitions, academic research, and extensive social services.

Shenzhen Museum, District A, Citizen Center, Fuzhong Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, +86 755 8812 5550, shenzhenmuseum@qq.com, https://www.shenzhenmuseum.com/

Hongfa Temple

Hongfa Temple, located in the Shenzhen Xianhu Botanical Garden within the Wutong Mountains, is often called Shenzhen's "Green Heart." Covering more than 30,000 square meters, the temple complex includes the Vestibule Hall, Heavenly King Hall, Buddhism Cultures Exhibition Hall, Grand Hall, and Hall of Scriptures Collection, all aligned on a central axis. Additional halls such as the Monastic Reception, Drum Tower, Mercy Buddha Hall, and one of China's largest Abstinence Halls are flanking these main structures. Established during the reform and opening-up period, construction began on July 1, 1985, under the leadership of the dignitary Benhuan Hoshang. Officially opened on August 31, 1990, Hongfa Temple has become Shenzhen's most revered and significant Buddhist temple.

Hongfa Temple, Luohu District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, +86 755 2573 7095, https://maps.app.goo.gl/

LINK City

Shenzhen Link City Underground Shopping Mall, located in the heart of Futian CBD, is adjacent to the Shenzhen International Convention and Exhibition Center. This extensive project spans 663 meters, connecting the Convention and Exhibition Center with shopping malls, office buildings, and metro stations via 19 underground entrances. Within a 500-meter radius, nearly 20 office buildings occupy 1.5 million square meters. Link City connects four major shopping malls—Central Walk, COCO Park, Shopping Park, and the under-construction AK Mall. It integrates shopping, leisure, food, and services into an underground street, creating a vibrant commercial activity and consumer interaction hub.

LINK City, No. 3, Fuhua 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China

Shekou

Nestled at the mouth of the Pearl River, Shekou in Shenzhen offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern vibrancy. Highlights include Sea World Shenzhen, the landlocked Minghua cruise ship amid hotels, restaurants, and shops, and the Sea World Cultural & Arts Center's stunning architecture and exhibitions. The revitalized I-Factory showcases industrial heritage alongside trendy eateries and cultural spaces. To taste local cuisine, try dim sum at Fan Lou or desserts at Bai Cao Tang Traditional Herbal House. Accessible by ferry from Hong Kong, Shekou is a must-visit for its rich history and lively atmosphere.

Shekou, https://maps.app.goo.gl/

MH Mall

MH Mall, a prominent landmark in Shenzhen, is located within the picturesque national 5A-level tourist attraction of Mission Hills Shenzhen. This "HOPSCA" urban complex seamlessly integrates Hotels, Offices, Parks & Leisure, Shopping, Culture, and Arts & Creativity, making it a premier destination for locals and tourists from Shenzhen, Dongguan, and Hong Kong. MH Centreville, extending across Shenzhen and Dongguan, offers a comprehensive leisure and entertainment experience with high-quality facilities like the Hard Rock Hotel, Orange Sky Golden Harvest Cinema, and the renowned Ice Castle skating rink. Recognized for its innovative "Retailtainment" concept, MH Mall redefines traditional shopping with a blend of retail, leisure, entertainment, and dining options, providing a unique and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

MH Mall, 8 Golf Avenue, Guanlan Street, Shenzhen, +86 755 2923 9888, https://mhcentreville.com/shenzhenmhmallen/en-us/

Best Family-Friendly Restaurants In Shenzhen

Dining in Shenzhen offers a delightful journey for families, blending traditional Chinese cuisine with international flavors to cater to every palate. The city's vibrant food scene includes everything from bustling dim sum brunches and seafood feasts to cozy cafes and trendy eateries. Whether exploring the local delicacies at street markets or enjoying a meal in one of Shenzhen's many family-friendly restaurants, there's something to satisfy everyone's taste buds.

Jin Yue Xuan

Dim sum is a favorite among foreigners, and Jin Yue Xuan stands out as a top venue in Shenzhen. Known for its comfortable air-conditioning and delicious offerings, the restaurant serves dim sum from 8 am to 2 pm and elegant dinners, including seafood specialties, in the evenings. Modern Cantonese dishes and regional Chinese cuisines highlight this elegant destination, which offers 10 exclusive private dining rooms for special events.

Jin Yue Xuan,  Four Seasons, 138 Fuhua Third Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, https://www.fourseasons.com/

Haidilao

Haidilao is a beloved hot pot restaurant chain in Shenzhen, popular among locals for its tasty cuisine and excellent service. With eight branches across the city, you can easily find one by searching "Haidilao" on your smartphone's map. Specializing in Sichuan food, Haidilao offers a memorable dining experience with considerate services. While waiting for a table, enjoy snacks, sit in a massage chair, or play cards. Once seated, a dedicated waiter ensures your meal is perfect, including providing aprons to protect your clothes. Take advantage of the entertaining Ramen performance by trained staff. The restaurant even provides warm towels and toothbrushes in the restroom.

Haidilao, Jingji Kkone Shopping Center Store, +86 755 23890493, https://maps.app.goo.gl/

Shang Palace

Shang Palace is renowned for its authentic Cantonese cuisine and elegant ambiance. One of the signature dishes, Truffle Steamed Eggs with Baked Boston Lobster, combines the rich flavors of black truffle and succulent lobster with smooth hibiscus eggs for a delightful blend of sea and forest freshness. Diners can enjoy a carefully curated menu with creative Cantonese dishes and hand-crafted dim sums, complemented by a fine selection of local and imported wines and traditional Chinese teas. The restaurant, which adheres to a smart casual dress code offers a sophisticated dining experience in the heart of the city.

Shang Palace, Shangri-La, Level 2, East Side, Railway Station, 1002 Jianshe Road, Shenzhen, +86 755 8396 1383, fbmarketing.slz@shangri-la.com, https://www.shangri-la.com/

Yes Thai

Yes Thai, located in the bustling COCO Park in Futian District, is a spacious restaurant favored by foreigners and expats. The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating, specializing in authentic Thai cuisine, focusing on popular curries. Diners can enjoy a variety of flavorful dishes such as crab curry, beef curry, and stir-fried shrimp curry, making it a go-to spot for those seeking a taste of Thailand in Shenzhen.

Yes Thai, https://maps.app.goo.gl/

Yong Fu Xiao Xian

Yong Fu Xiao Xian, located in MixC World Shenzhen, offers the same exquisite dishes as its Michelin-starred counterpart in Hong Kong at a more affordable price. The highlight is the '18-cut raw crabs,' where the chef skillfully plates fresh crab pieces with just 18 cuts, each piece perfectly coated with crab paste and wine to enhance the umami flavor. Other specialties include white crab fried rice cake, torched Huadiao chicken, and stewed sea anemone with sweet potato noodles. For a taste of refined Ningbo cuisine, Yong Fu Xiao Xian is a must-visit.

Yong Fu Xiao Xian, MixC World Shenzhen, Shennan Boulevard No.9668, Nanshan, Shenzhen, +86 755 8670 3301, https://maps.app.goo.gl/