ICIF and beyond: Hike and chill in Shenzhen

As the 21st China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) is underway at the Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center in Bao'an District, Shenzhen is buzzing with creativity. But beyond the exhibition halls, the city's lush hills and tranquil beaches attract visitors to explore a different side of the city. Here's how to make the most of your time at the ICIF and beyond.

What to explore at ICIF

Cultural Industries Hall A & B (Hall 9, 11)

These halls showcase top cultural enterprises from provinces across China, offering visitors a glimpse into regional crafts, innovations, and flagship brands.

International Cultural Trade Hall (Hall 10)

This hall features international cultural projects and an all-new global food pavilion. Iconic cultural IPs like the National Museum of China, Sanxingdui Museum, and Dunhuang Museum present their latest creations.

(Photo: ICIF)

Intangible Cultural Heritage·Arts and Crafts Hall (Hall 12)

Hall 12 is a treasure trove of art. Visitors can dive into live craft demonstrations by master artisans, explore intangible cultural heritage, discover time-honored brands, and experience vibrant rural culture!

GBA Cultural Innovation Hall (Hall 13)

This hall is a paradise for tech-lovers, featuring a first-ever artificial intelligence (AI) exhibition area. AR, VR, MR, XR, metaverse, AI-generated art, and more are showcased here, offering a peek into the cultural industry's future.

Film·Copyright·Gaming·E-sports Hall (Hall 14)

This hall serves as a hub for digital creativity. Visitors can explore the convergence of pop culture, entertainment, and technology, experiencing AI-powered creativity firsthand.

Cultural Consumption and Tourism Hall (Hall 15)

This hall presents tourism destinations, ancient towns, historic landmarks, and traditional culinary experiences.

(Photo: ICIF)

Art and Design·Fashion Culture·Cultural Tech and Finance Hall (Hall 16)

Hall 16 features trend-setting art installations, fashion brands, and creative investments, highlighting how lifestyle aesthetics and creativity are integrated into everyday life.

(Photo: ICIF)

Beyond ICIF: Shenzhen's scenic escapes

Phoenix Mountain Forest Park (凤凰山森林公园)

Phoenix Mountain Forest Park is a lush green haven that offers a refreshing escape from city life. A 30-minute hike brings you to Fengyan Temple, along with smaller halls, pavilions, ponds, and interesting grottoes. Along the forested trails, you'll also pass natural lookout platforms and bubbling creeks.

(Photo: Bao'an Cultural and Sports Center)

Opening hours: 6:00–19:00

Location: East of Fufeng Road, Fuyong Subdistrict, Bao'an District, Shenzhen (深圳市宝安区福永街道福凤路以东)

Qingping Ancient Market (清平古墟)

Dating back over 200 years, the historic market is home to several ancient structures, including the only existing three-arch stone bridge in Shenzhen, as well as the old sites of a pawnshop and a granary. It also has a film-making base.

The Qingping Ancient Market regularly hosts themed market events and other traditional culture-themed activities, providing a retro getaway for residents and tourists.

(Photo: Culture, Media, Tourism and Sports Bureau of Shenzhen Municipality)

Opening hours: All day

Location: Xinyan Road, Bao'an District, Shenzhen (深圳市宝安区新颜路清平古墟)

OH Bay (欢乐港湾)

Located in Qianhai's core area, OH Bay is a complex that seamlessly integrates nature, culture, and leisure. Its iconic "Bay Glory" Ferris wheel offers a panoramic view of the cityscape and coastline.

(Photo: Bao'an Cultural and Sports Center)

Here, visitors can stroll through Haibin Culture Park, catch a romantic water show or an open-air music festival, or explore the Bay Opera House and themed food street. Whether you're here for art, food, or just a scenic walk, OH Bay is the perfect urban escape.

(Photo: Bao'an Cultural and Sports Center)

Opening hours: 10:00-22:00 (Monday to Thursday); 10:00-22:30 (Friday, weekend and public holiday)

Location: South of Baohua Road, Xin'an Street, Bao'an Central District, Bao'an District, Shenzhen (深圳市宝安区宝安中心区新安街道宝华路以南)

Xichong Coastal Tourism Resort (西涌滨海旅游度假区)

With over 5 kilometers of coastline, Xichong is one of Shenzhen's longest and most tranquil beaches. Less crowded than other beaches in Dapeng, Xichong is a go-to spot for sunsets and surfing, and the nearby Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory makes it an ideal stargazing location.

(Photo: Dapeng New District)

(Photo: Cheng Longyan)

Opening hours:

Beach 1 & 3: 5:30–23:00

Beach 2: 8:00–23:00

Beach 4: 8:00–00:00

Location: Southeast end of Nan'ao Sub-district, Dapeng Peninsula, Longgang District, Shenzhen (深圳市龙岗区大鹏半岛近南澳街道东南端)

Dameisha Beach Park (大梅沙海滨公园)

Surrounded by green hills and facing the open sea, Dameisha Beach Park is a classic Shenzhen getaway. It's a 1000-meter stretch of golden sand that offers paddleboarding, sailing, and jet skiing experiences, as well as casual fun like sandcastle building and posing with cartoon sand sculptures. You can also take a leisurely walk along the coastal boardwalk, where the sea breeze and mountain views create the perfect summer vibes.