The sky is no longer the limit—it's the new urban layer.

Join us on our journey to see how Futian in Shenzhen is turning "future mobility" into real life.

Have you ever gilded a pixiu yourself? Or flown low over a megacity? Shenzhen offers both, where ancient craftsmanship meets futuristic flight. This isn't just a trip, it's a double thrill!

As a Special Economic Zone initially tasked with blazing a trail toward modernizing an underdeveloped country, Shenzhen once set its sights on global cities like Singapore, New York, and Tokyo, among others, as models for urban planning and the modernization of its industries and economy at large. In just four decades, Shenzhen has grown from a fishing village into a high-tech hub — becoming a window into the future for international visitors and the expats living in the city.

"No city in world history has grown with the speed of Shenzhen," Erik Solheim, former head of the United Nations Environment Programme, said on X on Nov 3. "From a fishing village to an 18 million population metropolis in 45 years. Incredibly, it's also an extremely green, high-tech and people-friendly city."

The post drew responses from others sharing their experiences watching Shenzhen's growth into a megacity.

"I have written about the same before — I was there in 2000 — most of the growth happened in the last 25 years," Ole H. Sanne, who identifies himself as Head Commercial at Allianz Bulk CFR8, in a comment under Solheim's post. "I quoted it as 'the first city to reach 20 million in 25 years; any other city with more than 20 million inhabitants has needed 500 years — and Shenzhen is like a science fiction movie.'"

Sean Upton-McLaughlin, an American business consultant who has lived in Shenzhen for years, tweeted earlier this year: "China now officially has the top innovation hub in the world in Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and Guangzhou. Silicon Valley isn't even #2 — that goes to Japan (Tokyo-Yokohama). If this isn't a sign that China's going to lead tech in the future, I don't know what is."

Taylor Ogan, CEO of Snow Bull Capital, who moved to Shenzhen from Boston in early 2023, has been sharing Shenzhen's city life and new technologies with overseas audiences via social media. His company focuses on sectors like autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles (EVs), batteries, 5G, and artificial intelligence (AI).

From time to time, he posts new gadgets and innovative technologies that emerge from Shenzhen. "I'm at the Bay Area Semiconductor Expo in Shenzhen," he tweeted on Oct 15. "A company called Qiyunfang, a subsidiary of (Shenzhen-based) SiCarrier, just unveiled two fully domestic EDA software platforms: one for schematic and one for PCB design. Yet another Made in China 2025 success."

His posts about Shenzhen are not always serious business content. On Oct 15, he tweeted a photo taken on a street, with a caption saying: "A Tesla ran out of battery in Shenzhen and a BYD came to the rescue, using its battery to charge the Tesla."

His posts reveal his enthusiasm for Shenzhen-made electric vehicles, drones, and other high-tech products.

Daichi Araki, a Japanese man who used to live in Shenzhen, operates a website named "Shenzhen Fan" and social media accounts about the city, which feature tech events, new technologies, and his experiences in Shenzhen.

"Experience a 'fully' autonomous driving ride in Shenzhen," Daichi said in a post. "This is truly moving, so if you're in Shenzhen, you absolutely have to try it! ... As you can see from the video, it drives carefully, avoiding pedestrians and Meituan drivers, making it safer than human driving. Even when parking, it makes fine adjustments until it stops precisely in a safe spot."

For cities that aspire to become boomtowns, Shenzhen serves as a compelling model. Prasanna Karthik, a Fulbright, Clinton Foundation, and Raisina Dialogue fellow from India, posted his thoughts on how his hometown Gurgaon — a financial and technology hub southwest of New Delhi — should learn from Shenzhen after visiting here.

"DLF Cyber City was and continues to be the epicenter of Gurgaon's economic nerve center, but it hasn't seen significant new developments in the last 15 years," Karthik said in a post. "In contrast, Shenzhen's economic activity is not concentrated around one office complex; instead, every corner of Shenzhen boasts world-class commercial developments that surpass Cyber City in several aspects."

Shenzhen, the futuristic city, indeed has much to be proud of: brand-new Metro stations and sleek, fully automated trains; skyscrapers like China Resources Tower, nicknamed the "Bamboo Shoot"; and iconic landmarks such as the Shenzhen Book City's Eyes of Bay Area Store — designed on the concept of two eyes looking into the future — the spaceship-like Shenzhen Science & Technology Museum, and the AirPod-shaped Shenzhen Bay Cultural Square.

With state-of-the-art research facilities seamlessly integrated into a "green island" concept, even Guangming Life Science Park, a biotech research and industrial park, leaves a lasting impression.

Daniel K. Cheong, from Mauritius, was apparently wowed by the architectural design of Gangxia North Metro Station, posting photos of its "Shenzhen Eye" ceiling on Facebook, saying: "Welcome to the future. The most beautiful and futuristic subway station I have ever seen! And remember, it's just a subway station!"

Shenzhen never fails to impress. The subtropical city now has the world's largest ski center. Located at the lowest latitude of any ski center in the world, Qianhai Snow World spans 100,000 square meters — about 14 football fields — showcasing a new facet of the city's vibrant urban life.

"Shenzhen Speed is insane!!! The largest indoor ski facility in the world (by far!) in a matter of months!!!" Taylor Ogan exclaimed, referring to Qianhai Snow World.

For expats like Ogan, Shenzhen is never a boring city. The ceaseless rollouts of new technologies and the convenient, state-of-the-art facilities underpinning a modern lifestyle are key to the city's appeal for people from around the world who came here to experience the future.

The author is a senior advisor at Shenzhen News Group.

linmin@szpgm.com

In Lianhua Hill Park at the heart of Shenzhen, visitors can find patrolling robots, automated garbage-collecting boats, and an autonomous minibus. They can also enjoy drinks and take-out food delivered by drone. These high-tech applications are not just for show. They are increasingly woven into the daily lives of Shenzhen residents.

They are part of a broader wave of new technologies and products that Shenzhen is integrating into people's lives. China is striving to drive high-quality economic development by expanding application scenarios for new technologies and products, and Shenzhen is leading the way. Li Chunlin, deputy head of the National Development and Reform Commission, speaking at a policy briefing on Nov 10, described "application scenarios" as a bridge connecting technology and industry and linking research and development to the market.

Drones, one of the iconic products that Shenzhen is known for, are taking over the city's skyline. According to official statistics, Shenzhen produced 2.75 million civilian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the first half of 2025, marking a 59 percent year-on-year growth. So far, the city has opened 306 UAV logistics flight routes. In the first three quarters of this year, 630,000 UAV flights were conducted to deliver goods. These figures show that Shenzhen not only boasts a fast-growing UAV industry cluster, but also offers more and more real-world application scenarios that bring technology into people's daily lives.

In March, the "Wings of Futian" Low-altitude UAV Showroom opened in Huaqiangbei, the globally-renowned electronics hub, showcasing cutting-edge electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and UAVs. The showroom adds to Huaqiangbei's growing list of dedicated venues for the low-altitude economy. Earlier this year, China's first all-industry-chain UAV equipment selection center began operations in the area.

While drone deliveries are becoming a common sight in parks and universities in Shenzhen, sightseeing flights aboard eVTOLs are set to take off, with test flights launched for coastal sightseeing in Yantian and excursions over Wutong Mountain and Donghu Reservoir in Luohu. Luohu has designated 15 passenger-carrying take-off and landing sites for eVTOLs.

Education is another field where technological innovation is benefiting residents in Shenzhen.

The new Shenzhen Science and Technology Museum offers a wide range of hands-on facilities designed for students and the general public to explore scientific research across disciplines such as basic science, life and health, intelligent industries and space exploration. The museum features both interactive exhibits and advanced simulation labs, allowing visitors to experience scientific concepts through engaging experiments. Highlights include the AI Evolution Touch Wall, which traces milestones in artificial intelligence and invites visitors to vote on AI ethics dilemmas, and the Global Data Globe, a 3-meter holographic projection that visualizes real-time international data flows. The Innovation Workshop offers 3D printing, robotics and drone assembly courses, while the museum's high-tech theaters provide immersive science experiences—from quantum superposition visualizations to interactive science talks—making the museum a comprehensive hub for experiential learning and scientific exploration.

As a high-tech powerhouse, Shenzhen is aggressively advancing AI research and applications. In addition to a string of humanoid robot startups, companies in Shenzhen have embraced the AI wave, seeking to apply AI across industries and daily life. While Tencent is pursuing AI development and applications in every segment of its sprawling business empire, a growing number of startups are delving into niche markets and specific sectors. XtalPi Holdings Limited, founded by three MIT postdoctoral physicists, is engaged in drug research, biotechnology, and materials science using AI, quantum physics and robotics. AI accelerates drug research and discovery by analyzing vast biological and chemical data to identify promising compounds, predict their efficacy and safety, and optimize molecular design.

In hospitals, doctors are using AI tools to diagnose diseases more accurately and efficiently, such as AI-powered analysis of CT scans and surgery robots to help surgeons perform procedures more accurately and reliably.

In Shenzhen, even traditional industries and services are under transformation through digital and AI technologies. A company named Jubaohui uses an app to help buyers customize their gold jewelry through an intelligent service, and provides retailers with smart supply chain management services. Weather forecasts have become more accurate and tailored to each subdistrict thanks to AI models. Police deploy drones to detect violations and improve traffic flow.

Even visiting a bookstore or reading in a library has become smarter and more enjoyable. The Shenzhen Book City's Eyes of Bay Area Store incorporates technologies such as AI-powered Q&A, VR immersive experiences, and digital twins to create innovative features like an intelligent book repository, smart retrieval system, and "magic bookshelves". Facilities such as AI reading booths and smart reading spaces further elevate the reading experience.

Technological innovation is a means, not an end. In Shenzhen, it transforms industries, enhances services, and improves everyday life. Technology for the greater good, the people and the future.

The author?is a senior advisor at Shenzhen News Group.

linmin@szpgm.com

The 2025 "A Date with China" international media delegation embarked on a captivating journey through Shenzhen, a city where cutting-edge innovation, vibrant tech vitality, and joyful exploration converge, from Nov 26 to 28.

Spanning Futian, Luohu and Yantian districts—and even reaching Guangming and Bao'an—the group delved into how the global hub of futuristic possibilities is shaping the future with its high-tech marvels and down-to-earth fun-filled atmosphere.

One of the highlights of the trip was Shenzhen's booming low-altitude economy. The delegation kicked off their adventure at "Futian Wings" in Futian district's Huaqiangbei, where drones were showcased as part of a new era in daily life. From kid-friendly "drone football" toys sparking young imaginations to intelligent drones tackling real-world tasks like high-rise cleaning, firefighting and urban planning, the exhibits highlighted how technology seamlessly integrates with practical applications.

"There are many application scenarios for low-altitude flight," Lai Lixia, a Luohu district official noted at the Wutong Pavilion. "Luohu was the first to launch medical drone deliveries, and we are also merging it with cultural tourism and even consumer camping—turning the skies into a new frontier for growth."

The thrill escalated at the Heli-eastern base, where journalists and bloggers boarded "air taxis" for a bird's-eye view of Yantian Port, Dameisha Beach, Shatoujiao's coastal charm, and the southern slopes of Wutong Mountain. "It was an incredible experience, and my mouth was hanging open," gushed South African blogger Lizzy. "The low-altitude helicopter really makes life so much easier."

The Shenzhen Science & Technology Museum offered more playful tech interactions where foreign media and vloggers played table tennis with robotic arms, competed in AI-powered football matches, sipped coffee brewed by robots, enjoyed latte art created by robotic baristas, and even danced with robotic partners.

"It really feels like you're stepping into some kind of futuristic world," marveled British content creator Jason Lightfoot, a Chinese son-in-law. "My son would love exploring here, and I'll definitely return with my whole family."

Afghan blogger Hashem, after sparring with a robotic arm, joked, "I knew the Chinese excel at ping-pong, but can China's robots? Turns out, they're just as precise and can even read human moves!"

The journey also ventured into the frontiers of neuroscience at Shenzhen's Industrial Innovation Center for Brain Science and Technology in Guangming district. Focused on brain health and aging society, the center explores autism, sleep disorders, Alzheimer's, etc.

"Explore the mysteries of the brain for the wellbeing of humanity" became a touching takeaway as the delegation discovered advancements in brain-computer integration, neural mapping, and brain-inspired machine learning.

Even reading got a tech upgrade at Bao'an Library. With a tap on electronic screens, visitors can borrow books; and returning them only involves scanning a code, activating 28 "Xiaozhi" sorting robots, which swiftly whisk the books away using smart systems. Serving as a microcosm of Shenzhen's innovation, the library is not just a knowledge haven but a testament to the city's "hardcore" tech prowess.

The grand finale was at Qianhai Snow World, Asia's largest indoor ski resort, where laughter echoed among US, UK, Mexican and Afghan guests as they experienced winter sports in subtropical Shenzhen.

"With these facilities, kids here can experience snow sports and may become professionals," said Emre Aytekin of Turkiye's Anadolu Agency, noting the growing interest in winter sports and economy since the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.

Over the course of three days, Shenzhen proved that the future isn't just imagined—it's lived, played and explored. For the international media, it was a vivid reminder: innovation thrives brightest when paired with curiosity and delight.

In Shenzhen, a vibrant and warm city in South China, lies Asia's largest indoor ski resort. The 2025 "A Date with China" international media tour visited Qianhai Snow World, where a Turkish journalist praised the facilities for nurturing children's potential in professional skiing. Since the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, winter sports and ice and snow economy have been thriving. Watch global friends discover the thrill of snow — right in the heart of a subtropical city!

During the 2025 "A Date with China" international media tour, journalists, experts and influencers from around the world explored Shenzhen's low-altitude economy, travelling through Luohu, Futian and Yantian districts. They experienced the city's innovative low-altitude taxis, offering an immersive journey that showcases how this emerging sector is transforming daily travel into scenes straight out of a sci-fi film. See how Shenzhen is advancing the future of mobility in breathtaking style!

Participants on the 2025 "A date with China" international media tour visited the "Futian Wings" Pengcheng Low-altitude UAV Exhibition Center in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, on Nov 27, 2025. The three-day event, which started on Wednesday, offers a firsthand look at the city's advancements in brain science infrastructure, the low-altitude economy, applied artificial intelligence, and others.

A group of international content creators recently explored the Shenzhen Science and Technology Museum, and Chinese tech blew their minds.

An Afghan vlogger was captivated by China's robots, praising them as "ping-pong pros". A British creator was so impressed that he's already planning a return trip with his family. From AI latte art to VR skyline tours, watch China's cutting-edge innovations spark joy and inspiration across the globe!

The Shenzhen Industrial Innovation Center for Brain Science and Technology, with a floor area of nearly 10,000 square meters, began operations in 2022.

Its core mission is to build a high-caliber incubation platform for future industries, spearheaded by startup services, backed by shared technology and patient capital, and distinguished by resource integration and demonstration.

To date, the center has hosted over 50 companies, successfully incubated five graduate companies and facilitated capital infusion of more than 300 million yuan ($42.37 million) into its incubates, with overall funding surpassing 1 billion yuan.

Content creators and media representatives from around the world visit a museum on polished lacquerware – where nothing is behind glass. Artists are busy at work! Meticulous outlines are filled in with impossibly small strokes, which are then polished with the patience of a saint. Not a power tool in sight. Everything is done the traditional way. The international group wrapped up their museum tour in its gallery of finished products, having a greater appreciation for the artistry behind each piece.

Join a Chinese journalist and his Brazilian peer on a Shanxi trip! They wandered through the grand Wang Family Compound, stood in awe of the thundering Hukou Waterfall, and explored the treasures of Shanxi Museum. This cross-cultural adventure blends ancient heritages with youth fun. Click the video to explore Shanxi at your fingertips!

The success of Black Myth: Wukong has not only captivated players worldwide but also shone a spotlight on the ancient architecture of Shanxi, where most of the game scenes were set. Elliot Maldonado, an avid fan of the game from the United States, followed the game's map in real life, visiting Xiaoxitian, Fencheng Ancient Town and Shuanglin Temple. This journey allowed him to experience the vibrant history and culture of China firsthand. He realized that there are other heroes apart from the Monkey King - those who quietly guard these ancient structures against time.

Ren Sixuan also contributed to the story.

During the "A Date with China 2025" international media tour to Shanxi province, content creators visited the Wang Family Compound dating back to the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911). The compound has been called home by thousands, directly or indirectly, a part of this powerful merchant family. Inside the little world they created, the creators incorporated symbols and messages into the architecture that not just inspire, but teach values to future generations.

Fortune

A pedestal beneath a wooden pillar serves practical purposes like preventing rot and adding strength, as well as decorative purposes. Looking carefully, one can see a bat inscribed within, which is not something to avoid in China because the pronunciation of "bat" in Mandarin is the same as "wealth".

Longevity and Unity

A male lion paired with a female and her cub is a common sight in China, showing strength and stability, but four little lions in one courtyard hardly seem like guardians. Having a pronunciation similar to "time", these lions represent the four seasons and longevity, while the nearby ball suggests unity. Two sides of the same coin for a family wanting to stay strong.

Family First

In one of the compound's many courtyards are tablets inscribed with classical stories of devotion to one's family. Rather than taking the mind to faraway places, the stories of virtue are meant to bring the viewer's thoughts closer to home.

Perseverance

A small post by a stairway, easily overlooked, shows a fish rising out of the water. The scene tells the story of a carp that battled its way through Dragon's Gate to become a dragon. Its message is a reminder not to rest on one's laurels but to work hard for a better future.

The numerous symbols in Shanxi's Wang Family Compound reflect the forward thinking that brought the family its fortune. Rather than simply wishing everyone fortune and longevity, viewers are reminded of the importance of goodness, unity, and diligence in achieving these.

Elliot Maldonado is a foreign expert at China Daily Website.

An international media tour explored dual identity of North China's Shanxi province – a guardian of millennia-old heritages and a hub of innovative cultural expressions.

The 2025 "A Date with China" international media tour recently concluded in Shanxi, featuring a diverse group of foreign journalists and content creators from countries including the United States, Brazil, Vietnam, Germany, Italy, Russia, Turkiye and Venezuela, venturing into China's rich cultural tapestry.

The event spotlighted Shanxi's breathtaking ancient architecture, world-renowned polychrome sculptures, and vibrant intangible cultural heritages, showcasing how tradition and modernity coexist and thrive in the heart of China.

One of the tour's most awe-inspiring stops was the Jinci Temple in Taiyuan, home to the Hall of Offerings (Xian Dian)—a stunning example of traditional Chinese wooden architecture constructed without a single nail. This architectural marvel, which has withstood the test of time, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Chinese builders.

"China's history is profound," said German content creator Tobias Dominiczak, whose wife hails from Shanxi. "I've visited China many times, but there are still so many historical sites I have yet to discover."

In Pingyao county, the group explored the Shuanglin Temple, famed for its exquisite colored sculptures, earning it the title "Treasury of Oriental Painted Sculpture Art". With over 2,000 sculptures spanning the Song (960-1279), Yuan (1271-1368), Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, each piece exudes vivid expressions and dynamic postures.

As part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Ancient City of Pingyao", the Shuanglin Temple has also gained recent fame as a filming location for the globally popular game Black Myth: Wukong, attracting a wave of "Wukong Trail" tourists. This blend of ancient artistry, digital innovation, and pop culture exemplifies Shanxi's growing influence in cultural tourism.

The tour also visited the Wang Family Compound in Jinzhong, a grand residential complex from the Ming and Qing dynasties, featuring intricate brick, wood and stone carvings symbolizing the harmony between architectural beauty and clan values.

"This will definitely appeal to young people and international audiences," noted Brazilian reporter Eric Napoli, highlighting how heritage sites featured in TV dramas can spark global interest.

Beyond architecture, Shanxi's intangible cultural heritages were equally captivating.

At the Donghu Vinegar Garden, participants discovered the versatility of Shanxi vinegar, from culinary uses to innovative products like vinegar-flavored ice cream and snacks. "Shanxi vinegar is so magical!" Italian content creator Andrea Randisi exclaimed.

Amazed by its additional uses, including as a skin nutrient and hand cleanser, he added, "The vinegar has so many functions."

In Pingyao Ancient City, the group experienced the art of hand-polished lacquerware, a traditional craft used in everything from furniture to jewelry boxes and souvenirs.

"A must-have find," praised Russian content creator Dmitrii Doromin. "These pieces can refresh your home or make meaningful gifts. The craftsmen are truly dedicated to sharing Eastern elegance with the world."

Shanxi also boasts a profound noodle culture that dates back centuries. The stunning noodle-making performances – blowing dough into balloons and shaving noodles atop their heads while riding unicycles –sparked a flurry of camera clicks. "It reminds me of my pasta-loving homeland," said an Italian vlogger. Great noodle culture connects across oceans.

Looking to refresh your home or find some special, meaningful gifts for loved ones? A Russian content creator gives his answer — exquisite Pingyao lacquerware! Crafted using time-honored techniques, each piece brings elegant Eastern aesthetics right into your hands. So, what stole the blogger's heart and are you hooked on this intangible cultural heritage?

Watch as participants on the "A Date with China "international media tour are left in awe by a Shanxi noodle art performance. One Italian content creator was reminded of his pasta-loving homeland. It seems great noodle culture connects across oceans. What's your favorite type of noodle? Share below!

Vinegar isn't just for cooking anymore. When a group of international visitors stepped into Donghu Vinegar Garden in North China's Shanxi province, they discovered a world beyond the dining table — from drinking vinegar and enjoying vinegar ice cream to even washing their hands with it! This traditional Chinese condiment is redefining creativity with a twist. Watch now and be amazed!

In Shanxi, vinegar is more than a seasoning — it's a cultural icon. Behind its sharp aroma lies a deep heritage of ancient techniques and a surprising wave of creativity.

Join China Daily reporter Zhang Na and German influencer Tobias Dominiczak for a special broadcast from the Donghu Vinegar Garden in Taiyuan, North China’s Shanxi province. We'll delve into the traditional methods that give this vinegar its unique character, sample aged varieties of artisan vinegar, and try unexpected vinegar-infused snacks. See for yourself how this iconic taste continues to evolve.

Tune in at 2 pm on Nov 13!

You won't believe it! Visiting Shuanglin Temple during the 2025 "A Date with China" tour, an American participant becomes a fan of the four guardians and even wants to give them the "best team award"!