An aerial view of Shenzhen's scenic Xichong coastline. (Photo: Shenzhen Evening News)
Summer is often associated with beaches and water sports. With the arrival of the first solar term of summer May 5, many Shenzhen residents are planning their weekend escapes to the city's eastern beaches.
Recently, Shenzhen Eastern Bus Group launched two new bus routes serving Xichong Beach and the Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory.
Two newly launched bus routes now connect visitors to Xichong Beach and the Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory, enhancing public transport options. (Photo: WeChat account "深圳交通")
1. Xichong Beach shuttle line
Terminal: Dark Night Planetarium transfer station
Stops: Entrances to Beaches No. 1, 2, 3 and 4 within the Xichong scenic area
Service hours: 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Fare: Flat rate of 5 yuan (US$0.7) per single trip (no discount for Shenzhentong users).
A map showing the Xichong Beach shuttle line.
Dubbed as the "Eastern Hawaii," Xichong Beach is Shenzhen's longest beach and a popular seaside vacation destination. It features four entrances, among which No. 1 and No. 3 are ideal for swimming, No. 2 offers expansive views perfect for photography and outdoor water activities, while No. 4 is suited for surfing. The 5.18-kilometer bus route connects all four beaches, providing convenient access.
2. Astronomical observatory shuttle line
Stops: Dark Night Planetarium transfer station, Danshuichong Greenway and observatory transfer station
Service hours: 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Fare: Flat rate of 5 yuan per single trip (no discount for Shenzhentong users).
A map showing the Astronomical Observatory shuttle line.
The Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory is a comprehensive facility integrating astronomical, meteorological, and marine observation, along with academic research and popular science education. There are hiking trails nearby, which connect visitors to the Chuanbi Rock, a coastal rock formation located downhill by the sea.
The Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory. (Photo: Shenzhen Evening News)
The two bus routes have been carefully designed to improve public transportation access in eastern Shenzhen. Their launch addresses the previous lack of direct bus service to the Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory, and provides seamless connections to the six major attractions in the Xichong scenic area.
Tourists can take Bus No. M232 to the Xichong Beach Entrance No. 2 stop and transfer to either shuttle line. The new routes offer a comfortable, convenient alternative to long walks under the hot sun, allowing visitors easy access to the beautiful beaches, and stunning mountain-sea landscapes.
