How to Travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen

Traveling between Hong Kong and Shenzhen is not only highly convenient but also offers a range of options to suit every type of traveler, whether you prioritize speed, cost-effectiveness, comfort, or flexibility. Both cities are well-connected through a variety of transportation methods, making it easy to choose the best fit for your needs. This comprehensive guide provides essential details on all the major travel routes, including schedules, fares, and practical tips, ensuring that you can plan a smooth and efficient journey. Whether you’re seeking the quickest route, the most affordable travel option, or a more leisurely experience, this guide will help you navigate your way between these dynamic cities with ease and confidence.

Travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen by Train (Best Way)
The high-speed rail network connecting Hong Kong West Kowloon Station to multiple core stations in Shenzhen is renowned for its efficiency, frequent departures, and excellent facilities, making it the top choice for most travelers.

The high-speed rail between Hong Kong and Shenzhen is the fastest and most efficient travel option, cutting the journey time to just 14–45 minutes. It offers a great balance of comfort and cost, with spacious seats, power outlets, and affordable fares, making it more economical than taxis and more comfortable than crowded minibuses. With frequent departures every 10–30 minutes from Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, it connects directly to key Shenzhen stations and both cities' metro networks, ensuring smooth transfers. The service is reliable, with simple ticketing, e-tickets, and face recognition, minimizing travel uncertainties.
Key Routes & Operational Information
A. Hong Kong West Kowloon Station - Shenzhen North Station
Earliest Train: Train G5624
Latest Train: Train G5608
Time: 07:01 - 23:00
Frequency: Every 10 - 20 minutes, with increased frequency during peak hours
Travel Duration: 18 - 28 minutes
Fares: Second Class CNY 75, First Class CNY 120, Business Class CNY 226
Recommended Trains: G5624 (Departs 07:01, Arrives 07:19) and G408 (Departs 12:00, Arrives 12:18), ideal for commuters or short trips

B. Hong Kong West Kowloon Station - Futian Station
Earliest Train: Train G5820
Latest Train: Train G5608
Time: 07:07 - 23:00
Frequency: Every 15 - 30 minutes
Travel Duration: 14 - 16 minutes (one of the shortest cross-border high-speed rail routes in China)
Fares: Second Class CNY 68, First Class CNY 109, Business Class CNY 204Advantage: Futian Station is adjacent to Futian CBD, perfect for travelers heading to Shenzhen's central area.

Practical Information
1. Seat Classes & Facilities
*Business Class: 2+1 seating arrangement with reclining leather seats. Complimentary mineral water and snacks are provided, with priority boarding. Equipped with power outlets and reading lights—ideal for business travel or travelers seeking comfort.
*First Class: 2+2 seating arrangement with spacious seats and a large backrest tilt angle. Most seats have power outlets, offering a quiet and uncrowded environment.
*Second Class: Standard 3+2 seating arrangement with the best cost-effectiveness. Equipped with small tables, and some seats have power outlets to meet basic travel needs.
2. Tickets:
*Online: Book via Trip.com (supports credit cards, Alipay, WeChat Pay); bind valid ID (Mainland Travel Permit/Passport) first. Book in advance—tickets sell out fast.
*Offline: Purchase at station ticket windows or self-service machines (bring original ID).
*Assistance: Contact via email for ticket booking support; tickets will be delivered to your designated location after payment.
3. Station Entry & Security:
*Automatic Gates: Most gates support passport scanning + facial recognition, so you can enter without a paper ticket.
*Manual Gates: If the automatic gate doesn’t work, you can show your passport + paper ticket to station staff.
*Security Check:Your luggage and personal items must pass through the security scanner, and you need to present your passport during the process.
4. Tips: Arrive at least 1 hour before departure. Bring your passport (required for ticket collection and boarding). Most stations accept e-tickets—print a copy beforehand for smoother entry via manual channels.
5. Location: North of the West Kowloon Cultural District in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, between Kowloon MTR Station and Austin Station.

We offer customized, affordable Hong Kong to Shenzhen tours with private transport, professional guides, and local dining experiences tailored to your preferences. Please check our most popular Shenzhen Tours including The Splendid China Folk Village as below:

Immerse Yourself in Shenzhen’s Transformation: A Comprehensive Layover Tour of Cultural Icons and Scenic Wonders Discover Shenzhen’s Hidden Gems: A Scenic and Cultural Shenzhen Day Tour from Traditional Hakka Villages to Modern Waterfront Wonders  

Travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen by Ferry
Ferries offer a unique scenic experience along the Pearl River Estuary, suitable for travelers with ample time who enjoy slow travel.
Operator & Hong Kong Boarding Point: Pearl River Delta Passenger Transport (Chu Kong Passenger Transport); Hong Kong-Macao Ferry Terminal (Sheung Wan)
Shenzhen Drop-off Point: Shenzhen Shekou Cruise Center   
Departure Schedule (Hong Kong to Shenzhen):
09:00 (Hong Kong-Macao Ferry Terminal) - 10:00 (Shenzhen Shekou) 
11:30 (Hong Kong-Macao Ferry Terminal) - 12:30 (Shenzhen Shekou) 
18:00 (Hong Kong-Macao Ferry Terminal) - 19:00 (Shenzhen Shekou) 
Travel Duration: Approximately 1 hour 
Fares: Economy Class: Adult CNY 56.6, Child CNY 28.7
First Class: Adult CNY 156.6, Child CNY 78.3
Practical Notes:
*Customs Clearance: "One-stop clearance" at Hong Kong terminals—no re-inspection in Shenzhen.
*Connection: Shekou Cruise Center connects to Shenzhen Metro Line 2, buses, and taxis.

Travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen by Cross-Border Buses
Cross-border buses cover extensive routes and offer affordable fares, making them suitable for budget-conscious travelers or those heading to non-core areas of Shenzhen. Some routes directly reach Shenzhen Airport.
Major Operators & Key Routes
Hong Kong - Longgang, Shenzhen Route (Including Cultural Tourism Special Line)
Hong Kong Boarding Points: APM Mong Kok, Hollywood Plaza Diamond Hill, Hilton Center Shatin, Yau Ma Tei  Shanghai Street, China Hong Kong City Tsim Sha Tsui, and Hong Kong International Airport (for the cultural    tourism line).
Shenzhen Drop-off Points: Longgang Galaxy COCO Park, Longgang Vanke Plaza, and Shenzhen Universiade Center (cultural tourism line).
Operation Hours: Hong Kong departure 08:15 - 21:30; Shenzhen return 06:30 - 20:15
Frequency: 60 - 90 minutes per trip for the cultural tourism line (38 round trips daily); variable for regular routes (subject to confirmation).
Travel Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours (including customs clearance via Heung Yuen Wai/Liantang Port).
Fares: Regular routes around CNY 70 one-way; cultural tourism line CNY 35 one-way.

Hong Kong - Luohu, Shenzhen Cultural Tourism & Consumption Line
Hong Kong Boarding Points: 10 points covering Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories, including China Hong Kong City Tsim Sha Tsui, APM Mong Kok, and Hong Kong International Airport.
Shenzhen Drop-off Points: Luohu Yitian Holiday Plaza, Shenzhen MixC (Luohu), and Zhaoxin Huijin Plaza (Dongmen Old Street).
Operation Hours: Hong Kong departure 09:00 - 20:30; Shenzhen return 08:30 - 20:00
Frequency: 2 - 3hours per trip for the cultural tourism line (10 round trips daily); variable for regular routes (subject to confirmation).
Travel Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours
Fares: CNY 35 - CNY 150 one-way.

Other Major Operators
Cross-Harbour China-Hong Kong Bus: Covers Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok, and Shatin in Hong Kong; drops off at Qianhai Sam's Club, Costco, and Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport. Operation hours 06:30 - 21:00, fares around CNY 60, frequency 30 - 60 minutes.
China Travel Bus: Boarding points at Tai Wai and Mong Kok; drops off at Longhua Sam's Club, Futian Shenrong Building, and Bao'an Yifang City. Operation hours 07:00 - 20:30, fares around CNY 70, frequency 45 - 90 minutes.
Hong Kong-Shenzhen Express: Focuses on Qianhai routes, with boarding points at Shatin and Mong Kok. Operation hours 07:30 - 20:00, fares around CNY 60, 60 minutes per trip.

Hong Kong Airport Direct Bus to Shenzhen
Boarding Point: Near Counter C03, Terminal 1, Hong Kong International Airport.
Shenzhen Drop-off Points: Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport, Futian Bus Station, Nanshan Bus Station.
Operation Hours: 08:00 - 21:00.
Frequency: Every 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Travel Duration: 3 - 3.5 hours.
Fares: CNY 80 - CNY 100.

Practical Information
1. Ticketing: Most routes support online ticketing via WeChat official accounts such as "Yongdong Direct Bus," or on-site purchase at the Hong Kong boarding point or Shenzhen service center (requires a Hong Kong and Macau travel permit/passport; real-name registration is required).
2. Border Crossing Tips: Prioritize Liantang Port (Heung Yuen Wai Port), as it has less crowds and faster clearance. Shenzhen Bay and Huanggang Ports may be congested during peak hours (7:00-9:00, 17:00-19:00), so it's recommended to avoid peak times.
3. Seat Confirmation: Some routes (such as the Yongdong Longgang Line) require secondary confirmation of the bus schedule. After placing your order, wait for feedback from the supplier to avoid being left without a seat.
4. Luggage: Luggage storage space on regular buses is limited; it's recommended to bring suitcases of 24 inches or smaller. For larger luggage, consider airport direct buses or private shuttle services.

Travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen by Green Minibuses
Besides direct buses, Hong Kong also offers Green Minibuses routes between Shenzhen Bay Port and Futian Port. These Green Minibuses run frequently, approximately every 5-8 minutes, and are the cheapest mode of transport. However, they do not provide luggage racks, so they are not recommended for travelers with large luggage. Furthermore, border checks also take considerable time, and the Shenzhen Bay Bridge may be closed in inclement weather; travelers must check this information before departure.
Shenzhen Bay Port Routes
Route 618: Tin Yan Estate (Tin Shui Wai) - Shenzhen Bay PortRoute: Round trip between Tin Yan Estate, Wetland Park, Ha Tsuen, and Shenzhen Bay Port (Hong Kong side).
Operation Hours: Tin Yan Estate departure 06:00 - 22:30; Shenzhen Bay Port departure 06:45 - 00:20.
Frequency: 8 - 15 minutes per trip.
Travel Duration: 25 - 35 minutes.
Fare: Approximately CNY 12.5 one-way.

Route 618A: Tin Yan Estate (Tin Shui Wai) - Shenzhen Bay Port (via Tin Ying Road)Route: One-way from Tin Yan Estate to Shenzhen Bay Port, covering Tin Shui Wai Northwest.
Operation Hours: Weekdays 06:20 - 10:00 & 16:00 - 19:00; Weekends & holidays 06:00 - 22:20.
Frequency: 20 minutes per trip.
Fare: Approximately CNY 12.5 one-way.

Futian Port Route
Route 75: Yuen Long - Futian PortRoute: Round trip between Yuen Long, Sha Po Village, Ha Wan Village, Lok Ma Chau, and Futian Port.
Operation Hours: Yuen Long departure 05:30 - 22:30; Futian Port departure 06:00 - 23:00.
Frequency: 5 - 8 minutes per trip.
Fare: Approximately CNY 8.7 one-way.

Travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen by MTR (Mass Transit Railway)
Hong Kong's MTR system connects directly to Shenzhen's metro network via specific boundary crossings, offering a seamless and cost-effective option for travelers staying in Hong Kong's urban areas. It requires customs clearance at the port and a transfer between Hong Kong MTR and Shenzhen Metro.
Key Routes & Transfer Details  
East Rail Line - Luohu Port - Shenzhen Metro Line 1Hong Kong MTR Section:
Take the East Rail Line from any station (e.g., Hung Hom, Mong Kok East, Shatin) to Lo Wu Station (terminus). Lo Wu Station is located within the Hong Kong Luohu Port area.
Operation Hours: East Rail Line (Lo Wu direction): 06:30 - 24:00 (Hong Kong departure).
Fares: varies slightly by origin station
Customs Clearance: After alighting at Lo Wu Station, follow signs to complete Hong Kong exit procedures. Cross the boundary bridge to Shenzhen Luohu Port for entry procedures.
Shenzhen Metro Connection: Upon completing Shenzhen entry clearance, enter Luohu Metro Station (Shenzhen Metro Line 1). Line 1 connects to key areas like Luohu CBD, Dongmen, and Houhai.

East Rail Line - Futian Port - Shenzhen Metro Line 4Hong Kong MTR Section:
Take the East Rail Line to Lok Ma Chau Station, which is adjacent to Futian Port. This route is an alternative to Luohu Port with often shorter clearance queues.
Operation Hours: East Rail Line (Lok Ma Chau direction): 06:30 - 22:30 (Hong Kong departure).
Fares: varies slightly by origin station
Customs Clearance: Lok Ma Chau Station has direct access to Hong Kong Futian Port exit counters. After exiting Hong Kong, walk through the cross-boundary corridor to Shenzhen Futian Port for entry.
Shenzhen Metro Connection: Exit to Futian Port Metro Station (Shenzhen Metro Line 4), which links to Futian CBD, Hongshan, and North Railway Station.

Practical Information
1. Ticketing: Hong Kong MTR accepts Octopus Card (recommended for convenience) or single journey tickets. Shenzhen Metro requires a Shenzhen Tong Card, Alipay/WeChat "Metro Code," or single journey tickets (purchased at station machines).
2. Travel Duration: Depends on the origin in Hong Kong—e.g., Mong Kok East to Luohu Port (including MTR ride): ~45 minutes; plus 15-45 minutes for customs clearance (peak hours may be longer); Shenzhen Metro ride to downtown takes 10-30 minutes.
3. Luggage: MTR cars have limited luggage space; avoid large suitcases. Foldable luggage or small carry-ons are recommended.
4. Peak Hours: Hong Kong East Rail Line is crowded during morning (07:30-09:30) and evening (17:30-19:30) commutes; customs clearance at Luohu Port peaks 07:00-09:00 and 17:00-19:00.
5. Station Accessibility: Most MTR stations have elevators and escalators, but some older stations may have limited accessibility for large items.

An Elegant 4-Day Tour of Guangzhou and Shenzhen: City Tours from Hong Kong with Rich History & Culture A 2-Day Shenzhen & Huizhou Journey: Explore Shenzhen’s Highlights with a One Day Shenzhen Tour from Hong Kong  

Travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen by Cross-Border Taxis
Cross-border taxis offer door-to-door service without transfers, suitable for 1 - 4 travelers with luggage or those prioritizing convenience.
Fares: CNY 400 - CNY 700 one-way (includes fare, customs fees, and fuel surcharge); CNY 900 - CNY 1700 for airport transfers.
Vehicle Classes: Economy (Skoda Octavia, Toyota Corolla) around CNY 480; Premium Minivan (Mercedes V-Class) for 6 passengers around CNY 670.
Booking Methods: On-site booking at Hong Kong Airport or hotel front desks; online booking via official apps or taxi company hotlines.
Travel Duration: 2.5 - 3.5 hours (direct to Shenzhen urban areas or airports).
Payment: Cash (CNY or HK$) preferred; some vehicles accept Alipay/WeChat Pay.
Communication: Drivers speak Cantonese and basic English; some speak simple Mandarin—prepare the destination in Chinese characters.

Five Ways to Get Around in Shenzhen
Once you arrive in Shenzhen, a diverse range of transportation options awaits to take you from high-speed rail stations, border checkpoints, or airports to your accommodation or tourist spots. As a modern tech hub with well-integrated transit networks, Shenzhen ensures seamless travel for both urban exploration and suburban getaways.
1. Get Around in Shenzhen by Metro
Shenzhen's metro is fast and efficient, covering key districts and attractions. It avoids traffic jams during peak hours, with fares ranging from CNY 2 to CNY 14. Payment is easy with Shenzhen Tong, Alipay/WeChat, or ticket machines. Line 11 (Airport Express) connects the airport to downtown in 30-40 minutes.
2. Get Around in Shenzhen by Public Bus
Buses serve suburban areas and spots not covered by the metro. Regular buses cost CNY 2, while express buses range from CNY 3 to CNY 5. Payment via Shenzhen Tong, mobile codes, or cash. Many buses run late, and most are electric for eco-friendly travel.
3. Get Around in Shenzhen by Taxi & Ride-Hailing
Taxis start at CNY 10 for the first 2 km. Use ride-hailing apps like DiDi Chuxing for convenience, with fare estimates and English options. Premium services like DiDi Premier offer extra comfort.
4. Get Around in Shenzhen by Shared Mobility (Bikes & E-Scooters)
For short trips (1-3 km), shared bikes and e-scooters cost CNY 2 to CNY 5 per 30 minutes. Available via apps like Meituan, Hellobike, and Mobike. Park in designated zones to avoid fines.
5. Get Around in Shenzhen by Intercity & Scenic Shuttles
*Airport Shuttles: Affordable shuttles from Bao'an Airport to major districts for CNY 20-30, every 20-30 minutes.
*Scenic Shuttles: Tourist areas like Dafen Oil Painting Village have shuttles connecting to metro stations, often with "ticket + shuttle" packages.
*Intercity Rails: High-speed trains from Shenzhen North or Futian Station connect to nearby cities for day trips.

Essential Travel Tips
1. Documents: Carry valid IDs (Hong Kong-Macao Travel Permit, passport) for ticketing, customs clearance, and boarding.
2. Customs Clearance: Avoid peak hours (07:00 - 09:00, 17:00 - 19:00). Heung Yuen Wai Port has faster clearance.
3. Payment: Bind Alipay/WeChat Pay (link to overseas credit cards); carry small CNY cash for emergencies.
4. Luggage: High-speed rail and buses have limited luggage space (prefer 24-inch or smaller suitcases). Choose taxis or private transfers for large luggage.
5. Weather & Road Conditions: Shenzhen is hot and rainy in summer (carry an umbrella); Shenzhen Bay Bridge may close in severe weather—check updates  beforehand.

Explore Your Way Holiday's Best Recommended Tours 

We design private and Tailor-made Hongkong to Shenzhen Tours customized to your style of travel at affordable local prices.  We will provide a private & spacious car and a local professional tour guide with over 5 years guiding experience only work for you or your group. Transport, ticket, and dining (We find the most authentic dishes popular with locals) all we will arrange for you according your requirements. Please check our most popular Shenzhen Tours including The Window of the World as below: 

Indulge in the Best of Shenzhen: A Luxurious 2-Day City Tour Through Culture, Art, and Modern Wonders Luxury 3-Day Shenzhen Day Tour from Hong Kong: Culture, Cuisine, and Scenic Wonders Reveal the Rich Tapestry of Guangzhou and Shenzhen in a Two-Day Tour Venture into Guangdong’s Best Kept Secrets: 7 Days of History, Nature, and Modernity from Hong Kong  

Are the above sample tour programs not suitable for you? Dont worry, our Tours Can Be Tailor-made based on your requirements and budget to create unique Shenzhen experiences that allow you to interact with the local people and culture. We are Shenzhen travel experts who know what your guidebook and foreign agencies don't.  Our enthusiastic tour expert will promptly reply you in details within 24 hours.