Shenzhen-themed tram debuts in Milan and Florence

Italian netizens have recently been sharing videos of a Shenzhen-themed tram as it travels through local streets. 

The tram’s exterior serves as a moving showcase of Shenzhen’s vibrant culture. Both sides are covered with posters featuring iconic cityscapes from the Chinese innovation hub, vividly highlighting Shenzhen’s cultural and tourism appeal to residents in Milan and Florence.

Under the sunlight, stunning visuals of Shenzhen Bay Park, the Ping An International Financial Center, the Civic Center, and the Bay Glory Ferris Wheel take center stage, capturing the attention of locals and evoking feelings of nostalgia among Chinese students studying abroad. 

A Shenzhen-themed tram spotted in Italy. Photos from official WeChat account "文旅深圳"

On social media platforms like TikTok, some students have posted videos expressing their pride and warmth upon seeing the posters adorned with the bold words "China Shenzhen," especially with the Chinese New Year approaching.

Known as a city of innovation, Shenzhen has long captivated global audiences with its unique charm. Similarly, Milan and Florence, two of Italy’s most iconic cultural and fashion capitals, enjoy international recognition. The launch of the Shenzhen-themed tram marks another milestone in strengthening the cultural and tourism ties between these dynamic regions.

The Shenzhen-themed tram runs on streets in Italy.

Shenzhen’s connection with Italy has been growing for years. In 2018, Shenzhen established a sister-city relationship with Milan, promoting collaboration in fashion design, culture, and tourism. Over the past five years, Shenzhen has participated in Milan Fashion Week for four consecutive years. In 2022, Milan hosted the first international promotion of Shenzhen Design Week and the Global Design Awards, further enhancing the partnership.

Additionally, the Shenzhen-Milan intercontinental flight route, launched last year, has improved connectivity to cities across Europe, Africa, and North America. Travelers can now enjoy visa-free transit and luggage check-through services at Milan Airport, making their journeys more convenient.

Shenzhen and Florence have also been expanding their cooperation in culture, education, and business. In 2023, the Shenzhen base of the Shanghai-Florence Sino-Italian Design Exchange Center was inaugurated, creating a bridge between Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Florence. This collaboration has facilitated deeper exchanges in art, design, and cultural creativity between China and Italy.

With Shenzhen’s promotional posters now visible on Italian streets, this initiative aims not only to attract more European tourists to Shenzhen but also to foster richer cultural exchange and mutual understanding. It is set to open up new opportunities for international tourism collaboration between these two regions.