5D4N Shenzhen itinerary
The year is coming to an end, and what better way to mark the end of 2025 than by spending a couple of days touring Singaporeans’ new travel hotspot AKA China. This time, we’re headed Southeast to the sparkling metropolis that is Shenzhen.
We’ve even done the planning for you; here’s a 5D4N Shenzhen itinerary so you don’t have to rack your brains coming up with one. In this list, we’ve got night markets, aesthetic restaurants, and breathtaking sights planned for your end-of-year holidays in China’s very own Silicon Valley.
Table of Contents
- 5D4N Shenzhen itinerary
- How to get to Shenzhen from Singapore?
- Where to stay in Shenzhen?
- – Day 1 –
- 9am – Green Wood Coffee
- 12pm – Nantou Ancient Town
- 3pm – Shenzhen Talent Park
- 6pm – Huoxi
- – Day 2 –
- 9am – Chu Xiang Lou
- 12pm – Defan Oil Painting Village
- 3pm – OCT-LOFT Creative Culture Park
- 6pm – Gankeng Hakka Townlet
- – Day 3 –
- 9am – Yong Ji Shou Jia Ci Gua Cheng Fen
- 12pm – Shenzhen Museum
- 3pm – Onionio Le Four
- 5pm – Free Sky 116
- 7pm – Dongmen Pedestrian Street
- – Day 4 –
- 10am – Yangtai Mountain Forest Park
- 1pm – China Folk Culture Village
- 3pm – 峼白 Cave Bar
- 6pm – Shuiwei Cun Night Food Market
- – Day 5 –
- 9am – Lianhua Mountain park
- 11am – Fairy Lake Botanical Gardens
- 2pm – Shenzhen Zhongshuge Bookstore
- How to get around Shenzhen?
How to get to Shenzhen from Singapore?
The trip from Singapore to Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport will only take approximately 4.5 hours if you hop on a one-way flight with Singapore Airlines starting from S$460.
Of course, there are cheaper alternatives such as China Southern Airlines (from S$313) and Air China (from S$300) with similar flight times – so download a movie or 2 and you’ll be on your way once you’ve finished your imaginary popcorn.
Where to stay in Shenzhen?
Image credit: Trip.com
The more popular vaycay spots in Shenzhen include Futian, Luohu, and Nanshan. Although they’re all about 30 minutes to an hour away from Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, these districts are known to play host to the best the city has to offer.
If you’re thinking of spending more time in Futian, Shenzhen’s iconic CBD hotspot, stay at Qiyu Hotel – with room rates as low as S$52/night. It’s also conveniently positioned near Shixia Metro and Huanggangcun Metro.
Image credit: Trip.com
If you’re a shopaholic, consider staying your nights at Mien Bias Hotel (from S$73/night) in the Luohu district – the area is near many shopping streets and mega malls, including Metro stations Guomo and Renmin South. This way, you won’t have to travel too far to clock in for your retail therapy.
Image credit: Trip.com
Known as the Silicon Valley of China and the country’s wealthiest district, Nanshan is surrounded by a myriad of tech parks and tech giants like Tencent, DJI, and Huawei. Enhance your stay here at Hilton Shenzhen Shekou Nanhai (from S$195/night) – with Sea World Metro and Shekou Port Metro Stations being a 10-minute walk away.
– Day 1 –
9am – Green Wood Coffee
Cottagecore cafe with S$4 marshmallow cookies
Peep this hidden gem cafe in Nanshan – 绿木咖啡, otherwise known as Green Wood Coffee. It’s a vintage-looking cafe that serves up delicious coffees and bakes – not to mention its homely and cosy atmosphere.
Image adapted from: 松果小众旅行志 & 来心猪 via Dianping
Some of their must-try menu items include their signature peanut butter latte at ¥34 (~S$6.20) and their gooey marshmallow cookies from ¥24 (~S$4.38) that come in flavours such as Biscoff and chocolate.
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12pm – Nantou Ancient Town
Explore 2,000year-old temples and architecture
Image credit: EYESHENZHEN
So breakfast is done and dusted – time to feed your brain with nuggets of history from over 2,000 years ago at Nantou Ancient Town, also known as Xin’an Old City – a 20-minute drive from the cafe.
Here, you’ll get a chance to explore temples that send you back to the Eastern Jin Dynasty in 331 CE. One of the many remarkable attractions includes the iconic Xin’an Tobacco Museum where you’ll learn about what Shenzhen’s tobacco trading industry looked like in the past – and it’s free for all visitors.
3pm – Shenzhen Talent Park
Shenzhen Talent Park
Image credit: HOPE Design
Next up, soak in lush greens and the afternoon breeze at Shenzhen Talent Park. As the name suggests, the park features a variety of works from not only artists but also prominent figures in human history for you to admire. Some to keep an eye out for include pieces from Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton, and Beethoven.
Image credit: KEEGAN VAUGHN via Trip.com
The park holds exhibitions for special events occasionally to appreciate local talents – there was an astonishing Sun Wu Kong art installation spanning 12 meters in height called The Great Sage by artist Li Xiangqun.
In the distance, you can also spot Shenzhen’s overarching Ping An Finance Centre – a modern marvel which celebrates the city’s rapid modernisation and economic growth.
6pm – Huoxi
Japanese-style 5-star hot pot dinner
Image credit: Tang Henry via Google Maps
It’s dinner time – what’s a visit to China without stuffing your face in hotpot delights? End the day at Huo Xi, a 5-star Chinese hotpot restaurant that exudes Japanese elegance, giving off major karesansui vibes.
Image adapted from: carman cheung via Google Maps
Favoured by locals and tourists alike, this hotpot place serves up Maw Chicken Soup Pot for ¥268 (~S$48.97) as their signature dish, along with an assortment of seafood like New Zealand Green Mussels for ¥36/serving (~S$6.58) and Hainan Razor Clams for ¥38/serving (~S$6.95). For meat lovers, sink your teeth into their Premium Wagyu Beef Platter (from ¥308,~S$56.30) to satisfy your taste buds.
– Day 2 –
9am – Chu Xiang Lou
Local-favourite Cantonese dim sum & tea house
Image credit: Trip.com
Fill your stomachs at Chu Xiang Lou – this Cantonese tea house dedicates itself to handmaking flavourful dim sum as a century-old tradition, and it’s well-loved by locals and tourists alike.
The tea house also looks in-theme – it’s lathered in a rich green and red, representing two out of the five colours from the Chinese Five Elements theory that dates back to the Qing Dynasty; with red symbolising good fortune and green symbolising vitality – nostalgic, to say the least.
Image adapted from: Trip.com
If you’d like to get the best taste of Cantonese food at Chu Xiang Lou – try out their recommended dishes such as their exotic Blue Butterfly Pea pepper Dumplings at ¥38/serving (~S$6.95), Zhufu Pearl Chicken Bun at ¥30/serving (~S$5.49), and some Xiguan Boat Porridge at ¥30 (~S$5.49) on the side.
12pm – Defan Oil Painting Village
Get your self-portrait at this painting-filled village
Image credit: Timothée Volpi via Google Maps
Step into a village dedicated entirely to the art of painting. You’ll be met with an array of unique artwork piled along the walkways and streets, and maybe some painting in action by local artists or art enthusiasts.
Although a somewhat bizarre yet stunning sight, Defan Oil Painting Village is known as the world’s largest producer of paintings that boomed in business during the 1990s, featuring world-famous works like The Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh as well as masterpieces from local artists.
Image credit: @lamyaq8 via Instagram
Other than admiring art pieces around the village, you can head over to the free-to-visit Dafen Art Museum or get your self-portrait painted. Simply look for an artist or shop you favour and request a self-portrait either on the spot or through a photo of your choice – prices depend on the artists’ rates.
3pm – OCT-LOFT Creative Culture Park
Explore Shenzhen’s most trendy street
If you’re a fan of artsy enclaves like Tokyo’s Shimokitazawa or Seoul’s Hongdae, you’ll love OCT-LOFT Creative Culture Park. Once an industrial area, it’s now a hip hangout packed with indie bookstores and contemporary art galleries.
You can spot old factory buildings now draped in ivy and fairy lights, and once you’re done exploring, pop into a few art shops, and maybe catch a live music session if you’re lucky.
6pm – Gankeng Hakka Townlet
Step into centuries worth of Hakka culture
Image credit: Travelem3 via Tripadvisor
End your day at Gankeng Hakka Townlet, a village that preserves over 350 years of Hakka history. Think traditional roundhouses, cobblestone paths, and red lanterns lining narrow alleys.
You can book a guided tour to learn more about its heritage and stories of the early Hakka settlers. But even without a guide, it’s lovely to just stroll around, snap some photos, and peek into the local shops.
For dinner, go for a communal-style feast at one of the nearby Hakka restaurants such as Pengcheng Restaurant and try their signature General’s Duck, smothered in a delectable sauce recipe worth 200 years of tradition. It’s the kind of meal that hits different after a full day of exploring.
Book a guided tour of Gankeng Ancient Town (S$8.89).
– Day 3 –
9am – Yong Ji Shou Jia Ci Gua Cheng Fen
Affordable breakfast with rice rolls from S$1
Image credit: Sohu
Start your Shenzhen morning with a comforting plate of rice noodle rolls at Yong Ji Shou Jia Ci Gua Chang Fen, a local favourite that’s been winning hearts with its silky-smooth rolls and old-school charm.
Image credit: 日落归山海 via Dianping
Their must-tries include the signature dishes such as the refreshing Cucumber Juice Rice Rolls, the nutty Black Rice Rolls, and the savoury Steamed Chicken Feet in Black Bean Sauce – all priced around ¥7 (~S$1.27) each.
Everything here is freshly handmade, and prices are incredibly wallet-friendly – so it’s easy to order a few varieties and share them all.
12pm – Shenzhen Museum
Fishing village turned tech city
Image credit: Tina P. K. via Google Maps
If you’re curious about how Shenzhen grew from a quiet fishing village into a bustling metropolis, visit the free Shenzhen Museum for a captivating storytelling experience.
Established in 1988 and renovated in 2008, it showcases the city’s rich history and rapid development. Its permanent exhibitions include Ancient Shenzhen, which features artefacts from the Neolithic period to the Tang Dynasty, while Modern Shenzhen showcases the city’s evolution up to its role as a Special Economic Zone.
These exhibits are complemented by interactive displays, scale models, and hands-on activities, making it a fun and knowledgeable experience for you and your family.
3pm – Onionio Le Four
French-style cafe in Futian
Have your afternoon tea at Onionio Le Four, a Southern French-style cafe in Futian that feels like a dreamy European garden escape.
Image credit: _Dylan_25 via Trip.com
Don’t miss their signature French Cherry Latte Cake (¥66, ~S$11.98), a delicate, light, and fluffy ceremonial dessert with hints of a sweet and bitter taste, served in a fancy trolley. Pair it with one of their Rose teas to complete your afternoon treat in a charming, IG-worthy setting.
5pm – Free Sky 116
Catch the sunset from one of China’s tallest buildings
Image credit: Klook
Catch the sunset from the 116th floor in Futian at Free Sky 116 on Ping An Finance Centre – one of China’s tallest buildings. The observation deck offers sweeping, stunning views of the city, and the sunset paints the skyline in a golden glow that’s pure magic for photos.
You can get tickets to skip the queues and spend more time soaking in the views.
Purchase your tickets for Free Sky 116 (from S$32.75).
7pm – Dongmen Pedestrian Street
Shop, eat & enjoy Shenzhen’s nightlife
Image credit: NotTheLastJedi via Tripadvisor
No trip to Shenzhen is complete without a stroll down Dongmen Pedestrian Street – If you want to feel Shenzhen come alive after dark, this street is the place to be.
Here, you can wander through the hustle and bustle of street vendors, stroll past neon-lit shops, and discover quirky boutiques or souvenirs that you won’t find anywhere else. Locals love it, visitors rave about it, and you’ll quickly see why this spot is a must-experience slice of Shenzhen life.
As you explore, make sure to taste the street food – grab a grilled squid on a stick, try some juicy lamb skewers, and if you dare, a serving of stinky tofu, or sip bubble tea while people-watching.
– Day 4 –
10am – Yangtai Mountain Forest Park
Mountains, waterfalls & ancient Chinese Pavilions
Image credit: @nickloveeast via Instagram
Take a break from the city and take a stroll at Yangtai Mountain Forest Park that offers scenic lookout points with breathtaking views of both mountains and the city. Plus, it’s free to enter.
Image credit: _Traveltastic_ via Trip.com
Don’t miss the Yangtai Waterfall, a peaceful spot where you can pause and soak in nature’s sounds, or Qingyun Pavilion, a historical sight worth capturing in photos. You can also watch locals practising tai chi, enjoy a picnic on the open lawns, or spot small hidden temples along the trails.
Whether you’re hiking, strolling, or simply relaxing, this park is a refreshing slice of nature near the city.
1pm – China Folk Culture Village
Mini replicas of the Great Wall of China
Image credit: Klook
At China Folk Culture Village, you can explore the country’s diversity all in one place. Wander amongst mini replicas of famous landmarks like the Great Wall, stroll through villages representing 21 ethnic minority groups – each showcasing unique architecture, crafts, and customs.
Purchase your tickets for China Folk Culture Village (from S$15.65).
Image credit: hiburan via Tripadvisor
There are also live music and dance performances to catch, so get ready to be in awe. Don’t forget to try regional snacks as you go, and if you’re down to get some souvenirs, there are plenty of handmade crafts to take home.
3pm – 峼白 Cave Bar
Hidden gem cave-themed bar
Image credit: rainbaos via Lemon8 app
After some time of walking and exploring different parts of Shenzhen, it’s time to unwind and relax – head to 峼白 Cave Bar in Dapeng Bay. You’ll feel like you’ve entered a cosy limestone cave, complete with soft, moody lighting that’s perfect for golden-hour photos.
You can share fried platters like calamari, chicken wings, and seafood skewers, or snack on other small bites while catching up with friends. Prices for these crowd-pleasers range from ¥48–¥88 (~S$8.71–S$15.97), making it an easy spot to relax without breaking the bank.
6pm – Shuiwei Cun Night Food Market
Locals’ go-to bustling night market
Image credit: Wikimedia Commons
Yipee, more street food – Shuiwei Cun Night Food Market is one of Shenzhen’s most beloved evening food destinations. As you wander through the bustling streets, let your senses guide you – the aroma of sizzling lamb skewers, the savoury goodness of oyster omelettes, and the sweet scent of bubble tea will tempt you at every corner.
There’s also the infamous stinky tofu to try – so grab a snack in each hand, wander between the stalls, and let yourself fully experience the energy and flavour of Shenzhen’s night market scene. Come hungry, leave with a happy belly and a camera full of memories.
– Day 5 –
9am – Lianhua Mountain park
Scenic walk around Shenzhen’s key landmarks
Image credit: Wikimedia Commons
Spend your last morning in Shenzhen at Lianhua Mountain Park – well known for its Deng Xiaoping Statue, a key landmark where you can learn a bit about Shenzhen’s history and snap some iconic photos.
Image credit: Tripadvisor
Bring a light breakfast or snacks and set up a mini picnic, or join locals in flying kites – it’s a popular morning activity here – and between lookout points, cultural highlights, and fun outdoor activities, this park is the perfect way to start your day, with calming vistas and a touch of adventure.
11am – Fairy Lake Botanical Gardens
Botanical garden of culture & exotic plants
Image credit: Jean M via Tripadvisor
At Fairy Lake Botanical Garden, you’ll be met with colourful flowers and scenic lakes smothered in greenery, where you can also hop on a boat for a relaxing ride across the water.
There’s also Hongfa Temple to visit, a peaceful Buddhist temple tucked into the gardens, and the Bamboo Garden that towers over visitors with its bamboo stalks. Pay a visit to the Cactus Garden as well, which hosts a variety of cacti from around the world – it’s no doubt an interesting sight especially for plant lovers.
2pm – Shenzhen Zhongshuge Bookstore
Bookstore into the future
Image credit: Marcela C. via Trip.com
Before you wrap up your trip, make a stop at Shenzhen Zhongshuge Bookstore in MixC World Mall – a bookstore that looks like it’s been ripped straight from a sci-fi film. As you wander under mirrored ceilings and past arched, glowing shelves, you’ll feel like you’re in a maze of stories waiting to be discovered.
Snap some photos of the futuristic design, grab a coffee, or pick out a unique book or gift to remember your trip by. Whether you’re a book lover, a photography enthusiast, or just someone looking for a calm and inspiring space, this bookstore is a serene and stylish way to end your Shenzhen adventure.
How to get around Shenzhen?
Image credit: DiDi China: Ride Hailing via Google Play
Getting around Shenzhen is actually simpler than you think. If you want to get somewhere directly, you can flag a taxi or use DiDi China (App Store | Google Play), the country’s ride-hailing app. Fares start at about ¥10 (~S$1.82) for short trips, while longer and night trips cost a little extra, which makes the app handy if you’ve got luggage or are heading somewhere off the metro lines.
Image credit: Explore Shenzhen Metro map via Google Play
Speaking of metros, Shenzhen’s subway system is clean, reliable, and makes getting to most attractions, malls, and hotels a breeze. Trains run frequently, signs are in English, and the MetroMan China app (App Store | Google Play) makes planning your routes super simple.
While you’re out and about, ditch the cash and go digital – WeChat Pay (App Store | Google Play) and Alipay (App Store | Google Play) are accepted almost everywhere, from street food stalls to department stores
Save our 5D4N Shenzhen Itinerary for your next trip
Shenzhen is indeed a city worth exploring – packed with good eats, amazing sights, and a rich heritage, you’ll be able to make the most of your Shenzhen adventure with this 5D4N itinerary.
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Cover image adapted from: EYESHENZHEN, NotTheLastJedi, Travelem3, Jean M via Tripadvisor