Global influencers explore 'low-altitude economy' and ancient crafts in Shenzhen tour

Video by Liu Xudong

From painting gold leaf on traditional porcelain to witnessing the future of autonomous "flying cars," a group of international influencers experienced the stark contrasts of Shenzhen’s development during a media tour Thursday.

The delegation, comprising journalists, influencers, and content creators from the 2025 "A Date with China" media program, visited Luohu, Futian, and Yantian districts. Their itinerary was designed to highlight the city's dual identity as a guardian of Chinese heritage and a global testing ground for futuristic infrastructure.

The tour’s most visually striking element occurred in the afternoon at the Pengcheng Low-Altitude Drones Display Center in Huaqiangbei, known as China’s premier electronics market. Guests watched demonstrations of dancing drones and robots, offering a glimpse into a future where urban air mobility is commonplace.

Guests watch demonstrations of dancing drones and robots at the Pengcheng Low-Altitude Drones Display Center in Huaqiangbei. Photos by Sun Yuchen

"I must say the futuristic side of China is by far my favorite," said Aisling Ruddy, a travel vlogger from the U.K., who was particularly impressed by the interior design of the autonomous aircraft. "We had to document it for sure to tell [friends and family] that flying cars do exist."

Later, the group experienced this concept firsthand at the Shenzhen Eastern General Aviation Co., Ltd. in Yantian District. A seven-minute helicopter flight over Wutong Mountain and the Dameisha coastline allowed the visitors to see how the "low-altitude economy" — a network of manned and unmanned aerial vehicles — is integrating with the city's logistics and daily life.

Douglas Dueño (R) experiences a seven-minute helicopter flight over Wutong Mountain and the Dameisha coastline. 

Douglas Dueño, a content creator from the U.S., noted the efficiency visible from the air.

"You could look down and see the infrastructure, as well as the trucks and people's daily lives, next to the ocean as well," Dueño said. "It is truly remarkable to see firsthand how efficient China has become in expanding and upgrading."

Dueño emphasized that this developing the low-altitude economy is pivotal for upgrading lifestyles, citing potential improvements in medical deliveries, e-commerce, and daily convenience.

Before taking to the skies, the delegation grounded themselves in the cultural heritage of Luohu District. In the Shuibei area, recognized as China's jewelry hub, the group engaged with traditional craftsmanship by decorating porcelain Pixiu — a mythical Chinese creature symbolizing wealth — using 24-karat gold leaf.

The group engages with traditional craftsmanship by decorating porcelain Pixiu. 

British vlogger Jason Lightfoot expressed a deep appreciation for the "intangible cultural heritage" involved in the craft.

"It was very interesting to immerse myself in this culture of jewelry crafting," Lightfoot said. "It's very important for events like this to flourish for this intangible cultural heritage to be passed down through generations."

Lightfoot added that he was impressed by the affordability and variety of the jewelry, noting the intricate details of both modern and traditional jade designs.

The tour concluded in Futian District with a visit to the city's first in-town duty-free store at the UpperHills shopping mall. The retail space is designed to offer a streamlined experience for international visitors, capitalizing on Shenzhen's push to become a global shopping hub.

Noelia Rodriguez, a guest from Mexico, compared the organized layout to an airport, noting it makes the shopping experience accessible for tourists who might otherwise find China's massive retail landscape daunting.

"It directly helps them recognize what they can find in that store," Rodriguez said. "I think that’s going to be really good for tourism, especially if they are attracted by the tax refund."

Bessenger (L) enjoys the helicopter tour.

For Jannelize Bessenger, a visitor from South Africa, the day offered a new perspective on urban coexistence.

"Back in South Africa, you just see the animals and the nature," Bessenger said after the helicopter tour. "But here in Shenzhen, you were flying across skyscrapers, and on the other side is the ocean. My mind was blown."

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