Step 1: Discover
Discover
Shenzhen
From a small fishing village to the world's most innovative tech hub in just 40 years. This is not science fiction. This is Shenzhen.
Step 2: Witness
40 Years of Miracle
Witness one of the most remarkable urban transformations in human history. Each image tells the story of a city that refused to stand still.
From Wasteland to Metropolis
The same location in 1982 and today - a transformation that defies imagination
Fields to Skyscrapers
Rice paddies became one of the world's most impressive skylines
Village to Financial Center
The Ping An Finance Centre now dominates where villages once stood
30 Years of Progress
Aerial view showing the dramatic urban expansion
Years of Growth
Population
Tech Companies
Hardware Hub
"In just 40 years, Shenzhen went from a population of 30,000 to over 17 million— the fastest urban growth in human history."
— World Economic Forum
Step 3: Experience
Through Multiple Lenses
Three perspectives of Shenzhen: the city, the innovation, and the people.
Shenzhen Official Promo
The official introduction to Shenzhen's modern landscape
Welcome to DJI Sky City
Tour DJI's futuristic headquarters in Shenzhen
The Human Side of Shenzhen
Discover the people and culture behind the tech
Your Journey Awaits
A 7-day executive journey through the Greater Bay Area's innovation ecosystem, exploring source innovation, technology translation, supply chain resilience, and capital markets.
Core Objective
To examine the Greater Bay Area's strategic layout in source innovation, technology translation, supply chain resilience, and capital markets.
Arrival & Urban Exploration
Arrival at Shenzhen
Private transfer to the hotel upon arrival. Flexible check-in.
Shenzhen Bay Talent Park
A relaxing walk along the bay to experience the ecological environment and the skyline of China's Silicon Valley.
Shenzhen Bay Culture Square
Visit this landmark cultural facility to understand the city's soft power and public space design.
INNO100
Visit Kickstarter's first authorized store in China to observe how this global innovation flagship integrates technology, design, and crowdfunding ecosystems.
Software Ecosystem, Algorithms & Digitalization
Policy, Infrastructure & Urban Strategy
Hardware Innovation, Globalization & Ethics
Guangming Science City & Source Innovation
The Hong Kong Role & Capital Markets
Departure
Step 5: Understand
The Story Behind
Award-winning documentaries from WIRED, Bloomberg, and more that explore why Shenzhen matters.
Shenzhen - Smart City | The Digital Metropolis
China Insight's comprehensive look at Shenzhen's smart city infrastructure (2025)
Shenzhen: The Silicon Valley of Hardware (WIRED)
Inside China's Future Factory (Bloomberg)
The People's Republic of The Future (Bloomberg)
Step 6: Feel
The Pulse of the City
Walk through the neon-lit streets of Shenzhen at night. This is not a movie set—this is everyday life.
Shenzhen, China in 4K - A Real Cyberpunk City at Night
Experience the stunning nightlife and futuristic atmosphere of Shenzhen
"The closest place on Earth to Night City"
— Reddit r/Cyberpunk
Step 7: Learn
Global Perspectives
Coverage from the world's most respected publications about Shenzhen's rise.
Story of cities: Shenzhen – from rural village to the world's largest megalopolis
Shenzhen, a city of around 17 million people, is now merely one element of the Pearl River Delta, the world's largest continuously urbanised area.
May 2016
How China became an innovation powerhouse
China's innovation chains often start with grants for researchers, who find a placement in state-backed labs. These, in turn, are fertile ground for startups.
August 2025
Inside Shenzhen: China's Silicon Valley
This Pearl River Delta megacity was a mere fishing village. Now home to up to 15 million people it hopes to become a tech nirvana for the world's hardware startups.
June 2014
Greater Bay Area: Hong Kong and Shenzhen deepen ties in finance and AI
Hong Kong and Shenzhen forge close ties in finance and AI to build world-class fintech hub, highlighting the region's role as a 'superconnector'.
January 2026
China has become a scientific superpower
From plant biology to superconductor physics, China is at the cutting edge. The country's scientific output has grown dramatically.
June 2024
Step 8: Connect
Real People, Real Stories
Thousands of foreigners have found opportunity, adventure, and a new home in Shenzhen. From makers building their dreams to entrepreneurs launching startups—discover how people from around the world are writing their own chapters in this city of possibilities.
Scotty Allen
Built His Own iPhone from Parts
"I spent months in Shenzhen's markets, learning from vendors and technicians. What I discovered wasn't just how to build a phone—it was an entire ecosystem of innovation that doesn't exist anywhere else on Earth."
Multiple Expats
Living as a Foreigner in Shenzhen
Shenzhen surprised me. It's not just about technology—it's about the people, the energy, and the endless possibilities.
American Visitor
Walking Through Shenzhen
This walk completely changed my perspective on China. The innovation, the cleanliness, the infrastructure—it's like stepping into the future.
Martin Crozier
Finding Connection Through Community
I found my community here through park runs and local events. Shenzhen became home in ways I never expected.
Long-term Expat
5 Years Living in Shenzhen
After five years, I can say Shenzhen is one of the most incredible cities to live in. The growth, the opportunities—it's unmatched.
Sans & Ary
A Day in Our Life in China
Living and working in China has been an adventure. Every day brings something new and exciting.
Shenzhen Expat Community
Why Foreigners Love Shenzhen
The convenience, the safety, the food, the people—there are so many reasons why foreigners fall in love with this city.
"Shenzhen doesn't just welcome dreamers—it helps them build."
Join the community of makers, entrepreneurs, and adventurers who have discovered that Shenzhen is more than a destination—it's a launchpad for your next chapter.
Step 9: Explore
Plan Your Adventure
Discover the key locations featured in our videos and reports. From the bustling electronics markets of Huaqiangbei to the futuristic headquarters of DJI and Tencent— plan your own Shenzhen adventure.
Explore Locations
Click to learn more about each place
Ready to Explore?
Shenzhen awaits. Come witness the city that transformed from a fishing village into the world's innovation capital in just four decades.