Shenzhen-Hong Kong travel guide: 6 major border crossings & tips

Traveling from Shenzhen to Hong Kong is a breeze when you know the right crossing points and procedures. To help you plan a seamless trip, here’s a clear summary of the operating hours and key features of Shenzhen’s six major land ports, along with practical tips for a smooth crossing experience.

Luohu Checkpoint

Passengers cross the border at Luohu Checkpoint. File photos

Best for: High passenger flow, direct MTR access to popular Hong Kong areas

Operating hours: 6:30 a.m.–11:59 p.m.

Metro: Line 1 to Luohu Station (罗湖站), Exit A1; or Line 9 to Renmin South Station (人民南站), Exit B

Futian Checkpoint

Passengers cross the border at Futian Checkpoint. 

Best for: Direct access to Hong Kong MTR for areas like Tsim Sha Tsui

Operating hours: 6:30 a.m.–10:30 p.m.

Metro: Lines 4 or 10 to Futian Port Station (福田口岸站)

Note: Transfer between Lines 4 and 10 is not direct inside the station. Passengers on Line 4 can enter the inspection building directly; those on Line 10 should use Exit C.

Huanggang Checkpoint

Best for: 24/7 operation, ideal for late-night or early-morning travel

Operating hours: 24 hours

Metro: Line 7 to Huanggang Checkpoint Station (皇岗口岸站)

Shenzhen Bay Checkpoint

Best for: Fast clearance, direct buses to Tuen Mun and Hong Kong airport

Operating hours: 6:30 a.m.–11:59 p.m.

Metro: Line 13 to Shenzhen Bay Checkpoint Station (深圳湾口岸站), Exit B/C

Wenjindu Checkpoint

Best for: Less crowded, quicker clearance (cross-border bus required)

Operating hours: 7 a.m.–10 p.m.

Metro: Line 9 to Wenjin Station (文锦站), Exit B; then walk about 500m

Liantang Checkpoint

Best for: Modern facilities, budget-friendly transport options

Operating hours: 7 a.m.–10 p.m.

Metro: Line 2/8 to Liantang Checkpoint Station (莲塘口岸站)

Preparation tips

Documents: Bring your ID card. Ensure your Hong Kong/Macao Travel Permit and valid visa endorsement are up-to-date.

Payment: Carry some HKD cash. Get an Octopus card for convenient use on Hong Kong public transport.

Parking (if driving): Futian, Luohu, Shenzhen Bay, Wenjindu, and Liantang checkpoints require prior parking reservations. Book via the WeChat official account “深圳口岸发布” or the “i口岸” miniprogram.

Crossing process: If you’re unsure about the crossing procedure at any port, search for the official WeChat account “深圳口岸发布”; go to “便民服务” (Convenience Services) → “通关指引” (Clearance Guide); and select your port to see step-by-step crossing instructions.

Duty-free allowance

For residents aged 18 or above entering from Hong Kong or Macao, personal belongings acquired abroad with a total value within 12,000 yuan (US$1,711) (inclusive) are duty-free.

If the port has an inbound duty-free shop, you may purchase duty-free goods there. The combined value of these purchases and your overseas-acquired personal items should not exceed 15,000 yuan (inclusive) to qualify for duty-free clearance.