The best things to do in Qianhai, Shenzhen’s trendy tech hub

Welcome to Qianhai, Shenzhen’s forward-looking special economic zone bridging Hong Kong and Guangdong. Masterplanned just 15 years ago, this 120sq km district along the city’s west coast has rapidly evolved into a dynamic hub for technology, finance and contemporary urban living, offering a compelling glimpse into the future of city-making in the Chinese Mainland. 

Eager to explore this futuristic hub? Here are some of the best things to do in Qianhai. 

Immerse yourself in arts and culture

Start at the Sea World Culture and Arts Center , a striking multi-purpose venue designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Fumihiko Maki. It houses the V&A Gallery in association with London’s historic Victoria and Albert Museum. The recently opened Bay Area Store of Shenzhen Book City is a bold new space dedicated to literature, arts, technology and nature. With plans to host more than 1,000 cultural events annually, it’s also the world’s largest physical bookshop.

Shop in style

MixC Qianhai ’s Instagram-worthy “Breeze Valley” is ideal for semi-al fresco dining amid extravagant installations. Nearby, the uber-modern Uniway caters to a variety of shoppers. Meanwhile, the similarly named Shenzhen Uniwalk Qianhai is the largest single-building shopping centre in Shenzhen and features a sizeable showroom with nearly every major electric car brand in the Chinese Mainland. The recently unveiled K11 Ecoast brings an art-themed shopping experience to the mix. Together with its adjacent Prince Bay Villa, a low-density outdoor lifestyle district, it attracts visitors with seaside markets, pop-up shops and exhibitions. 

Take a ride on a Ferris wheel

At Happy Harbour, the 128-metre Bay Glory Ferris Wheel (or Light of the Bay Area) offers breathtaking views of the Qianhai skyline. Wander along the harbourside paths, where smart booths serve up delightful snacks and activities. A stroll north leads to a covered food street buzzing with Michelin-recommended restaurants from around Asia. Head south to discover the tranquil city escape of Qianhai Guiwan Park.

Pick up a new hobby

For those seeking adventure, Qianhai boasts a variety of indoor sporting activities to try your hand at no matter the weather. Yuedong Indoor Pool at Qianhai Hop World offers surfing classes, while Snow 51 at Qianhai MixC provides indoor skiing as well as skateboarding classes. Later in 2025, Shenzhen Qianhai Snow World is set to open as the world’s largest indoor ski centre and a new landmark for the district.

Where to wine and dine in Qianhai, Shenzhen

Pairedd  

Dinner at Pairedd is a truly elevated dining experience. As the sister restaurant to the original Chengdu location, Pairedd in Shenzhen brings a coastal twist, spotlighting ocean-sourced ingredients. The intimate 12-seat space serves seasonal Chinese fusion cuisine, thoughtfully paired with a selection of wine and other beverages. 

Bingsheng Private Kitchen

For gourmets, Bingsheng Private Kitchen  in MixC Qianhai is an obvious choice. An offshoot of its Michelin-starred parent in Guangzhou, it’s known for oversized, photogenic pineapple buns and expertly prepared char siu. 

Decameron Coffee

Looking to get your caffeine fix somewhere unique? Decameron Coffee  is the answer. Founded by an experienced barista and international coffee judge, this local coffee brand offers speciality brews, unique house signatures and plenty of food options. The most scenic and airy branch is inside Qianhai Kerry Centre. 

Qianhai Brewery Co.

To savour a delicious dinner while sampling locally crafted beers, head to the Qianhai Brewery Co. at Jen Shenzhen Qianhai . With its stylish industrial interior, this casual bar offers 12 varieties of beers brewed in Qianhai as well as a menu of Asian fusion cuisine.

Where to stay in Qianhai, Shenzhen

Jen Shenzhen Qianhai 

Opened in 2023, Jen Shenzhen Qianhai by Shangri-La is a 369-key hotel designed with sustainability in mind. It features chic decor and a range of wellness facilities, including two heated swimming pools and a fully equipped 24-hour gym. 

Conrad Shenzhen 

The first luxury international hotel in Qianhai, Conrad Shenzhen offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. This 300-room hotel overlooks Qianhai Bay and features spacious rooms, an indoor heated pool, a gym and a rooftop bar. 

Getting there

Qianhai is accessible via Shenzhen Bao‘an International Airport. For those travelling from Hong Kong, there’s a 50-minute ferry from the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal . Various bus routes via the Trans-Island Chinalink Bus Company  connect passengers from different parts of the city to Qianhai. If you’re taking the MTR from Hong Kong, Lok Ma Chau is the closest station. From there, a short taxi ride will take you to Qianhai.