Getting around in Shenzhen

As one of the most modern cities in China, Shenzhen is home to an extensive and affordable public transport network that makes getting around the city a simple affair. Getting around in Shenzhen on four or two wheels will also be easy, thanks to the city’s well-maintained road infrastructure.

In the few areas of Shenzhen that are not covered by the metro or bus networks, cheap taxis are generally a safe and accessible option.

Public transport in Shenzhen

The public transport system in Shenzhen is modern, clean, and efficient. To access the integrated public transport system, you can purchase a ticket or a reloadable contactless smartcard known as a Shenzhen Tong Card. You can purchase these cards to swipe when boarding and exiting buses, some ferries, and the metro.

Buses

Operating more than 1,000 routes, Shenzhen boasts the world’s first fully electric bus fleet. These public buses are clean, comfortable, quiet, and punctual. Some bus services charge a flat rate, and others charge by distance.

You can use intercity buses for longer journeys to neighbouring cities and elsewhere in the country. These may not be as comfortable as long-distance trains, which are an efficient mode of transport in China.

Metro

Like many other Chinese cities, Shenzhen has a reliable and efficient metro system. It is one of the cheapest ways to travel within the city, and the extensive metro network covers most areas.

You can use your Shenzhen Tong Card or purchase tickets using electronic ticketing machines. Day passes for the metro are also available. Metro trains and stations can become uncomfortably crowded during peak hours. Metro lines typically operate between 6.30am and midnight, although timetables differ on public holidays.

Ferries

Ferries in Shenzhen are popular with expats and locals. Regular high-speed ferries travel to nearby cities and areas, including Macau and Hong Kong. Tickets can be bought at ticketing machines or ticketing counters in ferry stations.

Ferry tickets have been known to sell out quickly, particularly on weekends. We recommend planning ahead for ferry trips and booking tickets well in advance.

Useful links

• Shenzhen Bus Group
• Shenzhen Eastern Bus
• Shenzhen Metro
• Shekou Cruise Homeport

Taxis in Shenzhen

Taxis are widely and cheaply available in Shenzhen. The city has a unified line for calling taxis, which is easy to operate and offers the opportunity to request an accessible city.

You should always be sure to establish a price with taxi drivers before entering the vehicle, but Shenzhen’s local government sets tariffs that drivers must comply with. Ensure your taxi has a meter before you begin the ride to avoid being overcharged.

Taxi drivers may not be able to speak English, so you are advised to have your destination written down in Mandarin or use ride-hailing applications such as DiDi to avoid miscommunication. You can book traditional taxis by phone or through the taxi network’s app, which works similarly to DiDi. There are also various payment methods, which include cash or WeChat Pay.

Useful links

• DiDi

Driving in Shenzhen

Driving in Shenzhen can be frantic and unpredictable. Most expats prefer not to purchase a car. Those who do often decide to use a private driver instead of risking getting behind the wheel themselves.

Traffic congestion can be extreme, particularly when travelling close to the city centre and during peak times. Parking spots are also frequently difficult to find.

Road signage is all in Mandarin, and you will be at a disadvantage if you cannot speak or read the local language. If you intend to drive in Shenzhen, you must go through the full process of applying for a local driver’s licence since international licences are not recognised in China.

Transport and Driving in China has more on securing a local driver’s licence.

Cycling in Shenzhen

Cycling is becoming increasingly popular in Shenzhen. The city has invested in creating secure cycling paths and bicycle-sharing schemes.

Several companies operate bicycle-sharing schemes in Shenzhen, so you should be sure to do your research. It’s also important to note where to park the bikes to avoid haphazard parking. Children under 12 are not allowed to rent or ride bicycles on the road using public bike-sharing services. Expat families should keep this in mind.

Useful links

• Mobike
• Hellobike

Walking in Shenzhen

Walking in Shenzhen might not be the most efficient way to get around the city, but there are numerous footbridges and pedestrian walkways scattered throughout the city that make walking a little easier.

Shenzhen also boasts many famous pedestrian streets, including Dongmen Pedestrian Street and Huaqiang North Pedestrian Street.

Air travel in Shenzhen

If you’re travelling to or leaving Shenzhen, you will be glad to know that you will have easy access to nearby airports, which offer flights to a multitude of domestic and international destinations. Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport is well-connected to public transport, and Hong Kong’s airport is only a 30-minute ferry ride away from Shenzhen.

Useful links

• Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport