Getting around in Shenzhen

As one of the most modern cities in China, getting around in Shenzhen is a relatively simple affair. With an extensive and affordable public transport network and well-maintained road infrastructure, expats will have no trouble making their way around the city.

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.

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Public transport in Shenzhen

The public transport system in Shenzhen is modern, clean and efficient. Expats will usually have the choice of purchasing tickets or a reloadable contactless smartcard known as a Shenzhen Tong Card. The public transport system is largely integrated. Shenzhen Tong Cards can be purchased and then swiped when boarding and exiting buses, some ferries or the metro. 

Buses

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. Expats should be able to use their Shenzhen Tong Card on all public buses.

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

Metro

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

Expats can use their 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 11.30pm, though timetables differ on public holidays.

Ferries

Ferries in Shenzhen are a popular way for expats and locals to travel. There are regular high-speed ferries to nearby cities and areas including Macau and Hong Kong. Tickets can be bought on ticketing machines or at ticketing counters in ferry stations.

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

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Taxis in Shenzhen

Taxis are widely and cheaply available in Shenzhen. Expats should always be sure to establish a price with taxi drivers before they enter the vehicle. Taxi drivers may not be able to speak English, so expats are advised to have their destination written down in Chinese or use ride-hailing applications such as Uber to avoid miscommunication.

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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 make use of 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 often difficult to find.

Road signage is all in Mandarin, and expats who cannot speak or read the local language will be at a disadvantage. Any expat intending to drive in Shenzhen will need to go through the full process of applying for a local driver's licence, as international driving licences are not recognised in China. 

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Cycling in Shenzhen

Cycling is growing in popularity as a way to get around in Shenzhen. The city has invested in creating secure cycling paths and bicycle sharing schemes.

Several different companies operate bicycle-sharing schemes in Shenzhen, so expats should be sure to do their research. It's also important to note where to park the bikes to avoid haphazard parking.

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Walking in Shenzhen

Walking in Shenzhen might not be the most efficient way to get around the city, but expats will find that there are several footbridges and pedestrian walkways scattered throughout the city for them to use. 

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

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Air travel in Shenzhen

Expats travelling to or leaving Shenzhen will be glad to know that they 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.