Shenzhen - "China's Silicon Valley"
Shenzhen is a coastal mega-city in mainland China of 12.53 million people, with a subtropical climate. It borders Hong Kong, which is accessible by metro at Luohu and Futian stations. Shenzhen also offers a ferry to Macau. Most districs in Shenzhen have access to taxis and the always growing metro system, and all are connected by an intricate bus network.
Shenzhen is famous for its skyscrapers and is nicknamed "China's Silicon Valley." In a single day in Shenzhen, you could wake up, haggle for cheap electronics at SEG Electronics Plaza, grab lunch at a street cart, unwind by exploring the Splendid China Cultural Park, and end the night with a pub crawl through Coco Park. If you're missing a bit of home, hop over to Hong Kong for the day and pick up some Western snacks or take a day off and relax on the beach in Yantian district. All of this is easily accessible by a cheap and convenient transit system!
Shenzhen is made up of 4 urban districts (Nanshan, Futian, Luohu, Yantian) and 6 sub-urban districts (Bao'an, Longgang, Guangming, Longhua, Pingshan, Dapeng).
Shenzhen's Districts
Shenzhen is made up of 4 urban districts (Nanshan, Futian, Luohu, Yantian) and 6 sub-urban districts (Bao'an, Longgang, Guangming, Longhua, Pingshan, Dapeng).
Futian & Luohu
For those who need to be in the centre of things, Futian and Luohu Districts are right in the downtown core. Easily accessible by multiple metro lines and bordering Hong Kong, the trendy area’s shopping malls and restaurants are a favourite hangout.
Guangming & Pingshan
For those looking for a slower pace, Guangming and Pingshan districts have less people so it’s easier to unwind and get away from the hustle and bustle. These areas can also offer a more immersive experience as often times teachers here are the only foreign teacher in their school, so you get to know your Chinese co-teachers well.
Bao'an & Longhua
Bao’an is the largest residential district in Shenzhen. Originally Longhua was a part of Bao’an but became it’s own district as the population continues to expand. As a result, the schools in Bao’an and Longhua are pretty large and teachers usually end up working with several other foreign teachers in a team. What better way to meet new people right when you start!
Nanshan & Longgang
Nanshan and Longgang districts are both rapidly growing with Longgang being the second most populous district in Shenzhen and also a bustling transportation hub. Nanshan residents can also enjoy the beaches and trendy Sea World area famous for it’s nightlife scene.
Yantian & Dapeng
Who doesn’t love the beach? These two districts are very popular and many teachers chose to stay year after year. Dapeng is more rural than Yantian, but express buses can get you into the downtown core easily enough. Perfect for those wanting a laidback experience.
