Ten Reasons Shenzhen Will Blow Your Mind

Beaches

The beaches of Shenzhen are a true paradise. Long stretches of soft sand and warm sunshine make you feel as though you’re in a tropical retreat. With mango trees lining the streets and an average yearly temperature of 22°C (72°F), in many ways, you are.

Proximity to Hong Kong

Shenzhen’s big brother is just 90 minutes away. A convenient metro ride and a quick border crossing put the glitz and glamour of Hong Kong right at your fingertips.

A migrant city

Aside from our online centre teachers, most of us work with local students — but in Shenzhen, learners come from all across China. This offers a unique opportunity to gain a broader understanding of the country and enjoy traditions from a variety of hometowns. It’s an exciting place to be an English teacher!

Arts district

Shenzhen 22 is one of the city’s best-kept secrets. Cafés, galleries, and stunning wall murals in a repurposed factory complex combine to create an effortlessly cool space to hang out with friends, grab lunch, and enjoy some inspiring art. Also worth visiting is the OCT Art & Design Gallery, a popular destination showcasing innovative fashion and graphic design.

Window of the World

Want to see the world without spending a fortune? Head to Window of the World in Shenzhen, where you’ll find impressive replicas of famous global landmarks — from the Great Pyramids to Niagara Falls, Notre-Dame Cathedral to the Taj Mahal. Don’t forget to snap a selfie to send to your friends!

Clean air and low pollution

With an average AQI that rarely strays outside the “healthy” range, Shenzhen isn’t just one of the cleanest cities in China — it’s also one of the healthiest for outdoor activities.

Obama’s half-brother’s restaurant

Be sure to visit Cabin BBQ, also known as Muwu, when in Shenzhen. Run by Barack Obama’s half-brother, Mark, it’s become so popular that it now has branches in several Chinese cities. Enjoy a variety of skewered grilled dishes, a few cold beers, and a relaxed evening with friends on a lively outdoor patio.

Green spaces and hiking

Lianhua Mountain Park and Fairy Lake Botanical Gardens are not only two of the finest green spaces in Shenzhen — many say they’re among the most beautiful parks in all of China. Alongside parks and beaches, Shenzhen offers numerous hiking trails that make for perfect weekend adventures.

The biggest city you’ve never heard of

Shenzhen is the fourth-largest city in China and has the highest population density in the country. Some predict it may even become the world’s largest city by 2030. Despite its size and significance, many people outside China still haven’t heard of it!

Dongmen market

This is the place to go for fashion and souvenirs. A bustling pedestrian street located in one of China’s largest market districts, Dongmen is the perfect spot to spend an entire day browsing, shopping, and exploring the countless stalls.

Shenzhen is a stunning, fast-paced city that surprises many who visit or move here. Ready to start your adventure? Apply now.