Exploring Shenzhen’s Modern Charm: The “Whatever You Want” Private Tour
This Shenzhen private tour offers a unique way to experience China’s rapidly evolving tech hub without the usual crowds. Offered by Guangzhou Ziyuelai Commercial Company, this customizable itinerary promises a day filled with innovative transport, scenic views, local cuisine, and shopping — all for around $133 a person if you travel as a small group. From driverless cars to panoramic city vistas, it’s designed for travelers who crave an authentic yet modern slice of Shenzhen.
What really stands out are two things: the chance to ride in driverless cars, a taste of Shenzhen’s cutting-edge tech, and the opportunity to enjoy delicious Cantonese cuisine in a local restaurant. Plus, the scenic walk along Shenzhen Bay Park offers a peaceful break from urban buzz.
However, one potential consideration is that the tour is quite packed — with stops from the airport to city highlights, which might feel rushed if you prefer slow, in-depth exploration. It’s best suited for travelers who want a taste of Shenzhen’s best spots in a single day, especially those curious about urban innovation, city views, and vibrant shopping scenes. If you’re after a flexible, comfort-focused introduction to this modern city, this tour could be a good fit.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Innovative Transport: Experience Shenzhen’s advanced driverless cars firsthand, a rare opportunity for tech enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
- Beautiful Scenery: Enjoy a relaxed walk along Shenzhen Bay Park, with stunning views of the sea and Hong Kong’s skyline.
- Panoramic City Views: The observation deck at Ping An Finance Center grants impressive vistas of Shenzhen’s skyscrapers and urban landscape.
- Cultural Flavors: Savor authentic Cantonese dishes and local delicacies for a true taste of regional cuisine.
- Shopping Hotspot: Luohu Commercial City provides a lively shopping environment with souvenirs, clothes, and unique gifts.
- Flexible & Private: The tour is customizable, available in private or small groups, and allows you to choose your start time.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Shenzhen.
An In-Depth Look at the Shenzhen Private Tour
Starting Point and Transportation
You’ll meet your guide at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport around 10:30 am, a convenient location for travelers arriving by plane. The tour’s main highlight — the driverless car experience — is an engaging way to kick off your day, offering a glimpse into Shenzhen’s reputation as a city at the forefront of technological innovation.
You get to pick between “Carrot Run” and “Pony.ai”, two local providers operating driverless cars within certain districts and times. This is a fun, modern twist on transportation, giving you a feeling of what future travel might look like. While the tour doesn’t specify the exact districts or duration of the ride, travelers have found it a “fun and surprisingly smooth experience,” and it’s a rare chance to sit behind the wheelless steering wheel.
Lunch: Tasting Cantonese Cuisine
After the high-tech start, you’ll head to a local restaurant to enjoy a delicious lunch. The tour emphasizes regional favorites like dim sum, roasted goose, and sweet and sour pork, giving you a true taste of Cantonese culinary tradition. The quality and authenticity of the food are often praised, making this a satisfying highlight of the day.
Since lunch is included in the tour, you won’t need to worry about finding a good place on your own, but it’s worth noting that the experience is about enjoying local flavors rather than fine-dining splurges. It’s a casual, flavorful break in your busy schedule.
More Great Tours NearbyShenzhen Bay Park: Scenic Stroll and Sea Breezes
Post-lunch, the tour takes you to Shenzhen Bay Park, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Here, you can take a leisurely walk along the beach, enjoying the fresh sea air and panoramic views. This spot offers a peaceful contrast to the downtown hustle, with plenty of cafes and picnic areas to relax if you wish.
Travelers have described the views as “breathtaking,” especially when the Hong Kong skyline emerges in the distance. It’s an ideal place for photos or simply to unwind for a moment before heading to the next stop.
Ping An Finance Center Observation Deck
Next, you’ll visit the Ping An Finance Center, a symbol of Shenzhen’s rapid growth and modernity. Ascending to the observation deck, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the city’s skyline, green parks, and busy streets. The elevator ride itself is quick, but the payoff is stunning, especially for those who appreciate urban architecture and expansive cityscapes.
Many reviews mention how the panoramic vistas truly capture Shenzhen’s dynamic character. It’s a great photo opportunity and offers insight into how Shenzhen combines technological progress with urban planning.
Shopping at Luohu Commercial City
The day winds down with a visit to Luohu Commercial City, a bustling shopping district famous for textiles, accessories, and souvenirs. Here, you can browse stalls for unique gifts and local crafts, often at bargain prices. It’s a fun, lively environment where you can haggle for keepsakes or just soak in the vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Though it’s a popular spot, some travelers note that it can be crowded and overwhelming — but that’s part of the charm for those looking for authentic local markets.
Practical Details and Value
This tour, at $400 for up to three participants, offers a cost-effective way to see the city’s highlights without the stress of planning each detail yourself. The fact that it’s a private or small group experience maximizes flexibility and comfort — ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a personalized day.
While the ticket costs and transportation are not included, the main attractions are covered, and the tour’s focus on experience and convenience provides good value. The lunch and shopping are also included, which helps keep costs predictable and your day more relaxed.
The tour duration of 8 hours allows for a fairly rundown, but keep in mind it might feel quick if you prefer more in-depth exploration. The timing is flexible — just check availability.
What to Bring
Comfortable shoes are a must, especially for the walk at Shenzhen Bay Park. A hat, sunscreen, and a charged phone will help you enjoy the day fully, capturing photos and staying connected.
Important Notes
- The meeting point at the airport is straightforward.
- Driverless car rides are within specific districts and times, so your guide will ensure you’re in the right place.
- The observation deck offers sweeping views, perfect for photography and city admiration.
- Luohu Commercial City is lively and perfect for souvenirs, but expect some hustle.
Authenticity and Traveler Insights
From reviews, it’s clear that this tour feels more like a curated experience than a scripted show. Many travelers appreciated the blend of tech, nature, and urban sights, with some noting that the driverless car ride was a highlight they hadn’t expected. One reviewer said, “It was fascinating to see how autonomous vehicles are becoming part of this city’s fabric.”
The scenic walk along Shenzhen Bay, paired with the view of Hong Kong’s skyline, garnered praise as “stunning,” especially during sunset or clear days. The shopping experience was described as “ lively and authentic,” with some finding great souvenirs and others just soaking in the vibrant city atmosphere.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy modern cityscapes, innovative technology, and scenic views. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a balanced day combining a bit of nature, urban marvels, and local culture, without the hassle of self-planning.
It suits those with a curiosity about China’s tech advances, as well as travelers who want a convenient, flexible introduction to Shenzhen’s highlights. If you’re after an immersive, slow-paced exploration, this might feel a little rushed. But for a comprehensive snapshot in one day, it hits the right notes.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for travelers arriving at Shenzhen Airport?
Yes, the tour starts at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, making it very convenient for travelers arriving by plane.
What’s included in the price?
The experience of riding in driverless cars, visits to Shenzhen Bay Park and the Ping An Finance Center observation deck, and shopping time at Luohu Commercial City are included.
Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch at a local restaurant, featuring Cantonese cuisine, is provided as part of the tour.
Can I customize the start time?
Availability varies, so it’s best to check and confirm the start time when booking.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not wheelchair accessible.
How long does the driverless car ride last?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but it is within the district operational zones and designed to be a fun, brief experience.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a charged smartphone, and ID are recommended.
Are tickets and transportation outside the tour covered?
Tickets to individual attractions and transportation outside the scheduled stops are not included.
What’s the best time to take this tour?
Check availability for different starting times; generally, a morning departure around 10:30 am works well for an 8-hour day.
In the end, this Shenzhen private tour offers a neat package for those wanting a quick, well-rounded glimpse of the city’s tech-savvy, scenic, and lively sides. It’s not about exhaustive exploration but about capturing the essence of Shenzhen’s rapid development, beautiful parks, and vibrant shopping streets. Whether you’re a tech geek, a foodie, or a shopper, this experience provides a good foundation to understand China’s most youthful metropolis.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Private Tours in Shenzhen
- Shenzhen Private Tour Whatever You Want
- Shenzhen City Sightseeing & Private Photography Experience
- Shenzhen Self-Guided Tour With Private Car and Driver Service
- Private Shenzhen Evening Tour With Shenzhen Top Scenic Spots
- Private Shenzhen Day Tour From Hong Kong
- Shenzhen Airport (Szx): Private Transfer To/From Shenzhen
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