The freshmen are set to arrive at the Macao-Hengqin International Education (University) City in the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin. To help you settle into your new life, these six shopping and leisure destinations offer everything you need, with exclusive student discounts included.
Hengqin Port, Qinming Plaza
Once known primarily as a 24-hour border crossing, Hengqin Port has transformed into a vibrant lifestyle destination.
The complex features a total commercial area of 120,000 square meters. Its 48,000-square-meter first-phase retail zone is home to more than 50 renowned brands, several of which are Macao brands making their debut on the mainland.
Freshman perk: Present a valid student ID to enjoy 5%-20% discounts at 14 participating stores.
Huafa Mall
Huafa Mall is an open-air lifestyle complex that stays active around the clock. It features Macao's time-honored brands with more than 50 years of history, a cinema with a hotpot dining hall, and a 24/7 fitness center. It also has a diverse mix of brands making their debut or opening flagship stores to serve both Hengqin and Macao.
From the mall, visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of Macao’s iconic landmarks, including the Macao Tower. During major holidays such as New Year's Day and National Day, the mall also offers a great view of Macao's fireworks displays.
Legend Ponto Square
Inspired by Portugal's architectural style, Legend Ponto Square turns into a castle-like landmark after dark with its illuminated facades.
The square is surrounded by Western restaurants, pubs, and cafés, with a supermarket located on the basement level. The central plaza regularly hosts seasonal markets, concerts, and lifestyle festivals. Nearby Qinzheng Road is a popular destination for late-night dining.
The basement level is directly connected to Hengqin Station on the Zhuhai Airport Intercity Railway, just a few minutes' walk from the arrival plaza. Basement Exit B1 also provides direct access to Hengqin Port.
Hengqin Central Street
As Hengqin's first fully open-air leisure and commercial district, Hengqin Central Street offers approximately 23,000 square meters of modern Chinese garden-inspired space. With more than 60 local specialty restaurants, it is a favorite destination for food lovers.
Freshman perk: Register as a student member to receive a welcome gift with cultural merchandise and shopping vouchers. Participating merchants also offer 5%-20% discounts and exclusive student meal deals.
Novotown
Novotown is a one-stop destination for dining, shopping, and entertainment. This makes it a popular hangout spot for students. The complex features more than 30 trendy attractions, including BMX cycling, aerial rail rides, indoor karting, live-action laser combat, pottery workshops, and a 4,000-square-meter trampoline park.
Freshman perk: Present your student ID at the East Zone customer service counter to receive random dining vouchers and beverage coupons.
Around Hengqin Passenger Terminal
Hengqin Passenger Terminal is currently the only passenger ferry terminal in the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin. Its history dates back to the 1960s.
Head south from the ferry terminal to reach Sumlodol Hengqin Wharf Station, where you can enjoy waterfront dining and bars with beautiful sea views. Walk west to Dezheng Street, a lively area filled with local food stalls and one of the best places to experience Hengqin's authentic local atmosphere.
Reporter | Dai Bosi
Photo | Hengqin Online
