Shenzhen's tallest mountain, the Wutong Mountain is flanked by the districts of Luohu and Yantian. Rising at a height of 943.7 meters (3,096 feet), the mountain marks the source of the Shenzhen River. Blanketed in forests, the mountain is a an ecological hub with 196 animal species and 36 plant species. Albeit a challenge, the hike to the summit of this mountain rewards visitors with spectacular views of the entire city.
With a massive area of 546.00 hectares (1,349.20 acres) the Fairy Lake Botanical Gardens are no less than a wonderland. Located at the foot of the Wutong Mountains, the gardens are a rich tapestry of lush lawns, polychromatic trees, glistening lakes, arched bridges and swallow-tail pavilions. From magnolias, bamboos, aquatic plants to bonsai, the garden features over 12 dedicated gardens to different plant species. One of the most visited tourist attractions in the city, the Hong Fa Temple located in the garden is also a spectacular landmark.
Shenzhen's green lung amid the city center, the Lianhuashan Park (Lotus Hill Park) is arguably one of the most visited parks in the city. Spread across an area of 3.7 square kilometers (1.4 square miles), the park is an urban hill located in the buzzing Futian District. Tranquil pathways lined with a range of tropical trees, pavilions with benches and lush lawns characterize this beautiful park. The bronze statue of Deng Xiaoping is also placed in the park. Ideal for picnics or a leisurely stroll, the Lianhuashan Park is a must-have on your Shenzhen itinerary.
Rooted in the Song Dynasty, Tianhou Museum is nestled in the lap of Shenzhen. Flanked by soaring mountains and the sprawling sea, this erstwhile temple is an ornamental treasure that is revered for its long history. Wreathed in unbridled magnificence, this museum presents an enchanting illustration of the cultural, artistic and religious heritage of the city. Adorned with religious inscriptions, skillfully crafted lanterns, gilded detailing and pillars laden with intricately-carved mythical creatures, this resplendent temple is one of the most distinctive and revered landmarks of Shenzhen. Complete with a treasury of artifacts and relics, this museum is where stirring tales of ancient China are retold.
While the name of this bustling locale may give the impression of an aquarium or a marine life park to many, Shenzhen's Sea World is one of the most urban and lively spots in the city. Located along the Shenzhen Bay, the Sea World rose to prominence as a pulsating socio-cultural hub in 2003. Dotted with palm trees and surrounded by towering skyscrapers, the Sea World is defined by the permanently moored French luxury liner ship 'Minghua'. Its leafy boardwalk-like pathways are lined with shops, restaurants, lounges etc. With so much to offer, Shekou Sea World is indisputably one of the must-visit places for experiencing Shenzhen's charming urban culture.
Amid Shenzhen's intimidating skyscrapers and modern high-rises, the Hongfa Temple stands out in its traditional architecture. Arguably one of the few and most famous Buddhist temples in the city, the Hongfa Temple is ensconced in the Wutong Mountain amidst the Fairy Lake Botanical Garden. Jacketed in verdure, the temple is visited by locals and tourists for its religious significance as well as architectural beauty. Built in 1985, the Hongfa Temple is a major landmark of the city.
This charming Chinese-styled building, with its simple pitched-roof structure, gable ends and moldings, was built in 1912-1913 and opened as Hong Kong's first post office in 1915. After more than 80 years of service for the bustling Wanchai community, the building is now a declared monument. It is also the home of the Resource Centre of the Environmental Protection Department, which opened its doors to the public in December 1993. The aim of the centre is to provide public education on all matters environmental, and admission is free of charge.
A great way to get a different view of Hong Kong is to go sailing. For a unique experience, you can charter a junk, a traditional Chinese sailboat usually distinguished by a flamboyant red sail which are still seen around Victoria Harbour. Saffron Cruises runs charter tours around Aberdeen and the harbor. A crew is provided to operate the junk but there is no tour guide, so it is best to look at a map and figure out exactly where you would like to go.
Located in shop G3 in the Chinachem Hollywood Centre on Hollywood street, Connoisseur Art Gallery features many diverse styles of paintings. It aims to popularize contemporary Chinese artists like Ran Jie and Jia Juanli but also exhibits internationally acclaimed Swedish artist Dorina Mocan. Because of the gallery's popularity, works featured here will soon become famous, making this a perfect place for up-and-coming artists to show off their work. Its shows best illustrate the variety and vigor of Chinese paintings. Visitors who enjoy Chinese paintings will definitely find Connoisseur interesting.
Hidden by the adjacent stone walls of King George V Memorial Park, Above Second is a uniquely international exhibition space in local-heavy Sai Ying Pun. Founded in 2010 by resident artists Jasper Wong and partner May Wong, Above Second puts their focus on "New Contemporary" art inspired by illustration, pop-culture, photography, graffiti, murals and other alternative styles of street art that have gained a following in the modern art scene. International artists flock to Above Second to decorate the plain white walls that make a return before every exhibition, designs and tags bursting out from the plate glass gallery facade. The artists featured at Above Second are top-notch talents, many of them native Hong Kongers.
Hong Kong Squash Centre is one of the largest squash courts in Hong Kong and you can enjoy your favorite racket sport in this accommodating and extremely well-maintained facility. It comprises eighteen squash courts where you can pay and play in advance by booking in advance or join up as a member and enjoy cheaper court rates. It is home to an array of international as well as national squash tournaments and there is also a small eatery onsite to cure your hunger pangs after sweating it out.