Planning your trip to Shenzhen

When to go

With a long summer and short, mild winter, the weather is mostly fine for traveling all year round in Shenzhen. The best time to visit is from October to December, after the typhoon season has ended and summer torpor has passed. Spring is also great time to travel, with mild temperatures and blooming flora making outdoor activities and coastal excursions a treat.

June~September

The city can get particularly scorching and humid as Shenzheners decamp to the beach. Typhoon season.

August

Peak rainy season, but this also means better air quality, too.

October~April

The driest months. November to early January is the best time for sightseeing and hiking.

January~March

Shenzhen’s fleeting “winter,” when temperatures average about 10 degrees Celcius; mists and fog are frequent.

Currency

Yuan (¥: 元)

Languages

Mandarin, Cantonese, Hakka, English

Visas

Visas are required for most nationalities. It’s possible to stay in Guangdong Province visa-free for up to 144 hours (six days) if you are in transit. You can also get a Shenzhen 5-day Visa on Arrival, limited to travel inside the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone.

Money

Mobile payment is the most common, but the payment apps are restrictive for visitors — Apple Wallet often works. Cash is still accepted everywhere. Most ATMs accept foreign cards, and most large banks change money.

Mobile Phones

A smartphone with local number and internet access can be useful. SIM cards can be bought at the arrival area of Shenzhen Airport. Ensure your phone isunlocked if taking your own.

Time

China Standard Time (GMT/ UTC plus eight hours)