Shenzhen is quickly becoming China’s go-to city for cutting-edge design, innovation and enterprise. It is home to China’s leading corporations in the Fortune 500, such as Huawei, Tencent, and Ping An Insurance, and emerging giant ventures of global impact with BYD Auto, BGI Genomics, and DJI-Innovation. And in 2016 alone, over $377 billion worth of imports and exports passed through its port, making it the 4th busiest sea port in the world!
Often cited as the world’s newest Silicon Valley (Business Week, 2014), Shenzhen has over 30,000 technology companies with 1,203 companies recording over $14.5 million in sales listing itself as No. 1 Chinese city in comprehensive economic competitiveness (Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, 2017). In 2016, research and development was 4.2 percent of its GDP, equalling the rates of Israel and South Korea. Shenzhen also listed 20,000 PCT patent applications in 2016, accounting for nearly half of that of all cities in China.
In addition to its being a vibrant economic and innovation hub, Shenzhen has also been mindful of sculpting and maintaining its natural beauty and wonder. Located in the far south of China, this tropical city is full of green parks, inviting cafés, eclectic restaurants, cultural events and fashionable bars. Flowers bloom all year round, and hikes in tree-lined hills and exotic nature reserves are open for the outdoor lover no matter what time of year it is. You will find lots of ways to enjoy your time in Shenzhen, whether you are an ambitious techie or avid bird watcher.
