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Shenzhen, China

Traditions and customs in Shenzhen

5 customs and traditions in Shenzhen — what they are, and how to take part without causing offence.

Last updated 2026-08-09

1. Maker culture

Maker culture
Photo: 準建築人手札網站 Forgemind ArchiMedia · CC BY 2.0 · source

Hardware prototyping is a genuine local scene, with open workshops and same-day fabrication.

2. Hakka walled villages

Hakka walled villages
Photo: 準建築人手札網站 Forgemind ArchiMedia · CC BY 2.0 · source

Fortified clan settlements predating the city entirely, several preserved within it.

3. Cross-border weekend life

Cross-border weekend life
Photo: 準建築人手札網站 Forgemind ArchiMedia · CC BY 2.0 · source

Hundreds of thousands move between here and Hong Kong; the rhythms of both cities reflect it.

4. Tea markets

Tea markets
Photo: 準建築人手札網站 Forgemind ArchiMedia · CC BY 2.0 · source

Wholesale tea trading at scale, particularly pu-erh, with tasting expected before buying.

5. Migrant food culture

Migrant food culture
Photo: 準建築人手札網站 Forgemind ArchiMedia · CC BY 2.0 · source

Almost nobody here is from here, so every provincial cuisine in China is represented properly.

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