The cultural heart of Shenzhen keeps surprising me

When I first arrived in Shenzhen, I was struck by the city’s modernity, its towering skyscrapers, green parks, and fast-paced lifestyle. Everything felt new and exciting. But among all the amazing places in this vibrant city, one continues to impress me every time I visit: Splendid China Folk Village.

                           Horse riding areas at Splendid China Folk Village. Photos by Gulbakhor inoyatova

Located in the heart of the city, this park is more than a tourist attraction. It’s a journey through China’s rich cultural heritage. The park has two parts: Splendid China Miniature Park, featuring scaled-down models of famous landmarks like the Great Wall and Forbidden City, and China Folk Culture Village, where you can explore the traditions, architecture, and customs of China’s 56 ethnic groups. What makes this place so special is how it brings together China’s vast cultural landscape in one place. Walking through the village feels like traveling across the country in a single day, from Tibetan temples and Miao houses to imperial palaces and desert forts. Every area is thoughtfully designed, full of color and detail.

                               Scaled-down models of famous Chinese landmarks at Splendid China Folk Village.

The magic of Splendid China Folk Village goes beyond sightseeing. You can witness traditional wedding ceremonies, try local foods, learn calligraphy or kite-making, and interact with performers dressed in traditional ethnic costumes. Each experience offers a personal connection to culture, one you can see, hear, and even taste.

At night, the park comes alive with spectacular performances. The outdoor show "Dragon and Phoenix" blends dance, music, martial arts, and storytelling into a breathtaking experience. I still remember the elegant peacock dance by the performers and the powerful drumming that followed. The special effects, waterfalls, fire, and even live horses made it all feel like a dream.

                                              A corner of Splendid China Folk Village.

To fellow expats, students, and curious travelers, I highly recommend visiting Splendid China Folk Village. It’s a powerful reminder that even in a fast-developing city like Shenzhen, tradition and progress can coexist beautifully.