【Shenzhen】Shenzhen Bay Park

Stretching 13 km along the city's western edge, Shenzhen Bay Park is the centerpiece of the "City-Sea-Mountain" ecological network. Fourteen sections unfold seamlessly: Egret Slope hosts tens of thousands of migratory birds in winter, including endangered black-faced spoonbills; Wedding Plaza's arches frame harbor views perfect for sunset portraits of Shenzhen Bay Bridge against Hong Kong's skyline; Tidal Wetlands' boardwalks vanish and reappear with the tides, exposing mudflats teeming with fiddler crabs at low tide. Awarded by landscape architects, the park prioritizes ecology—mangroves filter urban runoff, while artificial reefs nurture marine life, earning it the nickname "urban green kidney".

Cycling is ideal: dedicated lanes wind past rental stations (try the "Sports Square" to "Mangrove East" route). At dawn, tai chi groups flow on sea-view decks; at dusk, runners weave through light installations. Nearby "MixC World" offers waterfront dining, while "Ocean Dream Aquarium" (ticketed) dazzles with jellyfish tanks and coral reefs. Admission-free; bring sun and mosquito protection. During spring tides (1st/15th lunar calendar), witness dramatic tidal surges in the mangrove channels.

Tips:

• Hours: 6:00 AM-11:00 PM

• Ticket: Free

• Cycling route: Rent bikes at "Sports Square," end at "Mangrove East Station"

• Best time: Sunset for golden-hour birdwatching.