Arriving in Shenzhen

Metro Line 11 (Airport–Futiian–Shenzhen North) runs from the airport to central Futian in about 30 minutes (¥18–28 depending on destination). This is the preferred option for most hotels in Futian or Nanshan. Taxis from SZX cost ¥80–150 to Futian. If arriving via Hong Kong: MTR East Rail to Lo Wu or Lok Ma Chau, cross the border on foot, and connect to Shenzhen metro. The Shekou Ferry Terminal also receives ferries from Hong Kong's Central and Tsim Sha Tsui piers.

SIMs are available at the airport and at mobile phone shops on the ground floor of most shopping malls. China Unicom has an English-friendly tourist SIM service. Shenzhen's proximity to Hong Kong means many visitors use a roaming Hong Kong SIM for some or all of their stay — functional but more expensive. The VPN situation is the same as all of mainland China.

Shenzhen is arguably China's most cashless city — even traditional market stalls in Dongmen often accept QR payment. Alipay and WeChat Pay are both essential. The Shenzhen metro and buses accept both apps as well as standard bank cards with contactless functionality (UnionPay). Foreign card acceptance via Alipay or WeChat Pay international is reliable here.

ATMs are widespread. HSBC has branches in Futian and Nanshan that are familiar with foreign account holders. Cash is less necessary in Shenzhen than most Chinese cities but keep ¥200–300 for smaller transactions. Hong Kong dollars are not accepted at standard mainland businesses despite the proximity.

Shenzhen is UTC+8. As a young, 24-hour city with restaurants and convenience stores open through the night, the arrival experience is less disorienting than older cities. The evening markets are active until well after midnight, making it easy to stay awake on the first night.

Shenzhen has a large English-speaking expat community, particularly in Nanshan and Shekou. Most hotels in these areas have bilingual staff. Sea World in Shekou has a cluster of international cafes and restaurants where English is routinely spoken. The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital provides English-language medical care. In an emergency, the city's hospitals have international wings; your hotel concierge can direct you.