Innovative matchmaking series launches

In a modern twist on matchmaking, Shenzhen is inviting young professionals to find romance through a series of government-supported, tech-infused social events across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

The month-long series blends urban exploration, artificial intelligence, and local culture in a bid to foster connections among singles from Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and Macao, the Shenzhen Women’s Federation said in a press briefing Thursday.

Young participants gather for a group photo beneath the illuminated Bay Glory Ferris Wheel during a matchmaking event in Bao’an District on Sept. 14, part of the cross-region romance campaign. Photos from WeChat account "深i她" unless otherwise stated

The initiative, which runs through late September, is jointly organized by the Shenzhen Women’s Federation, municipal talent authorities, and women’s associations from Hong Kong and Macao under the guidance of the All-China Women’s Federation.

Young singles pose with themed signs during a daytime matchmaking event in Qianhai on Sept. 13. Photo from WeChat account "深圳前海"

Unlike traditional speed-dating, the program emphasizes shared experiences over formal setups. Some 200 participants have been grouped into teams tasked with completing themed urban trails — including tech showcases, pet-friendly cafes, literary salons, and outdoor challenges — aimed at encouraging lighthearted interaction.

A flagship gathering is scheduled for this Saturday at the Nest Art Center in Nanshan District, where participants will reunite for an evening of performances, storytelling, and magic shows.

Meanwhile, district-level events have already taken place, each reflecting local character. In Futian, young tech employees engaged in cultural and creative activities and compatibility games. Luohu offered helicopter rides over the cityscape, leveraging its emerging low-altitude economy. Longgang incorporated AI-generated imagery and smart matching algorithms. In Dapeng New Area, a seaside sunset music party set a relaxed tone for mingling.

Young attendees board a helicopte ride during a matchmaking event hotsted by the Luohu District government on Sept. 13, offering a sky-high view of Shenzhen’s skyline as part of the city's low-altitude economy experience.

Other activities included vintage costume changes in Longhua, joint coffee workshops in Yantian, and trail running and flower arranging in Pingshan.

The campaign is among the latest of Shenzhen’s efforts to promote an inclusive, youth-friendly urban culture while supporting family values. It also highlights the city’s ambition to integrate technology into social services.