Arriving in Shenzhen

Shenzhen, a major logistics and travel hub in southern China, is accessible by plane, train, bus, and boat.

Travelers from neighboring Hong Kong can reach the city via MTR, high-speed train, or ferry, while those coming from other parts of China primarily use high-speed trains and domestic flights. Additionally, some visitors arrive directly from overseas through Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport.

Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport

Located on the east bank of the Pearl River and approximately 30 km from downtown Shenzhen, the airport is the fifth busiest in China.

A single large terminal serves all major domestic and international destinations, including South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, the Philippines, the United States, Russia, Israel, Italy, Germany, France, Australia, and New Zealand.

Metro

Conveniently, Shenzhen’s extensive metro network serves the airport via Line 11, providing a fast, affordable, and convenient way to travel into the city.

It takes approximately 37 minutes to reach Futian, the eastern terminus of Line 11. Trains run from the airport daily between 6 a.m. and midnight.

Taxi

Taking a taxi from the airport to central Shenzhen is a comfortable and reasonably affordable option, with fares typically ranging from 60 to 120 yuan depending on traffic conditions. 

Be sure to use the official taxi stands, and have your hotel's name either saved on your phone or written down in Chinese to show the driver, as few taxi drivers speak English.

Shuttle bus

Airport shuttle buses operate to various destinations throughout Shenzhen, offering a convenient option for travel beyond the metro network— such as to Dameisha Beach or directly to Shenzhen’s ports and railway stations. Some shuttle services run until 2 a.m., which can be especially helpful if your flight arrives late after the metro has closed.

Long-distance bus

You can also take long-distance coaches directly from the Shenzhen airport to nearby cities, including Guangzhou (55 yuan, approximately two hours, operating from 9:50 a.m. to 6:55 p.m.), Hong Kong (130 yuan, about 70 minutes, from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.), and Macao (100 yuan, roughly two hours, from 10 a.m. to 9:10 p.m.).

Look for signs within the airport terminal directing you to the long-distance bus ticket counter.

High-speed train

Dozens of high-speed trains connect Shenzhen with Hong Kong everyday. The fastest route is from Futian Station (14minutes) and you can also travel from Shenzhen North Station (20minutes). Tickets are 75 yuan for a one-way, second-class seat, and trains run from around 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

Although you can just turn up and buy a ticket on the day, it's recommended to book in advance during busy periods, either by purchasing tickets at any train station or buying online at sites such as www.trip.com. Tickets can also be booked on Hong Kong's MTR website (www.highspeed.mtr.com.hk).Immigration takes place on the Hong Kong side at the West Kowloon rail terminus.

Ferry

The Shenzhen airport features its own ferry terminal, Fuyong Ferry Terminal, where you can take a fast boat directly to Hong Kong or Macao. Fares start from 235 yuan, with travel times of approximately 70 minutes to Hong Kong and 40 minutes to Macao. For more details, visit www.turbojet.com.hk.