Dapeng Ancient City, located in the eastern part of Shenzhen, is a well-preserved Ming Dynasty fortress and an important historical military defense site along China’s coastline.
In contrast to Shenzhen’s modern urban landscape, Dapeng Ancient City stands as a cultural treasure frozen in time, attracting visitors who have an interest in history, culture, and natural scenery.
The city was originally built during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty and has a history of over six hundred years. At that time, it served as a coastal defense fortress, protecting against pirates and foreign invasions, and stands as a classic example of Ming Dynasty military architecture.
The ancient city’s walls, gates, and beacon towers are well preserved, allowing visitors to directly experience the military defensive atmosphere of that era and feel the profound weight of history.
Strolling along the old stone-paved streets of Dapeng Ancient City is like stepping back in time. On both sides of the street are numerous traditional craft shops, where artisans create distinctive handicrafts such as bamboo weaving, ceramics, and paper-cutting.
Visitors can not only admire these exquisite handicrafts but also interact with the artisans to learn about their skills and the stories behind their craft.
Dapeng Ancient City is renowned for its authentic Cantonese cuisine, especially its fresh seafood. The dishes emphasize simple seasoning to highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients, such as steamed grouper, steamed crab with black bean sauce, and roasted goose, all of which vividly reflect the culinary traditions of the southern coastal region.
In the narrow alleys of the ancient city, various traditional sweets and snack stalls offer visitors an authentic taste of local flavors.
Moreover, the city regularly hosts a variety of vibrant cultural events and traditional festivals, such as dragon and lion dances, Cantonese opera performances, calligraphy exhibitions, and dragon boat races during the Dragon Boat Festival. These activities not only allow visitors to deeply experience the customs of southern China but also fill the ancient city with a lively and festive atmosphere.
Here, history is not just a collection of static relics but a vibrant cultural experience. Visitors can truly feel, taste, and participate in the traditional culture of southern China, making for an unforgettable cultural journey.
The town is nestled among green mountains and faces the vast South China Sea, boasting unique natural landscapes. With mountains and sea intertwined and fresh air all around, it is an ideal place to escape the bustle of the city and reconnect with nature. Nearby, Qiniang Mountain, known for its majestic peaks and rich vegetation, attracts many hiking enthusiasts.
From the summit of Qiniang Mountain, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the azure sea and sky, with the coastline winding gracefully below, creating a breathtaking and serene landscape that refreshes the mind and soul.
Besides the mountains, the nearby Dapeng Bay Beach is a popular spot for visitors to relax and unwind. The fine sandy shore and crystal-clear waters complement each other perfectly, making it ideal for swimming, beach strolling, and seaside picnics.
The sunrises and sunsets by the sea are especially magnificent, attracting many photography enthusiasts eager to capture these breathtaking natural moments.
Moreover, the surrounding wetlands and nature reserves provide excellent habitats for diverse flora and fauna. Visitors have the opportunity to observe a rich variety of bird species and marine life, enjoying the pleasures of eco-tourism.
Whether you enjoy outdoor activities, nature exploration, or simply relaxing by the sea, Dapeng Ancient City caters to the diverse needs of all visitors.
By combining its rich natural landscapes with profound historical and cultural heritage, Dapeng Ancient City is not only a premier cultural tourism destination but also a multifaceted spot offering hiking, seaside leisure, and eco-tourism experiences. Here, visitors can stroll through the corridors of history and breathe in the embrace of nature, truly appreciating the harmonious coexistence between humans and the natural world.
Ticket Prices and Location of Dapeng Ancient City
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | Pengcheng Community, Dapeng New District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China |
| Adult Ticket | 15 RMB |
| Student Ticket | 10 RMB (for students and children between 1.2m and 1.5m tall) |
| Discounts | Free for children under 1.1m, seniors over 70, and people with valid disability certificates |
| Opening Hours | Daily, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Transportation | Bus: Transfer to bus M471 at Dapeng Central Station, get off at Dapeng Ancient City station |
| Self-drive: Advance reservation required on holidays and weekends |