How to Travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen

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
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.
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 204
Advantage: 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.

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 the most efficient travel backbone, covering all core districts and key attractions like Window of the World, Happy Valley, and Dameisha Beach. It avoids traffic jams—critical during morning (7:30-9:30) and evening (17:30-19:30) rush hours. All stations and signs feature bilingual Chinese-English guidance. Fares range from CNY 2 to CNY 14 based on distance. Payment is hassle-free via Shenzhen Tong Card, Alipay/WeChat “Metro Code,” or self-service ticket machines. Notably, Line 11 (Airport Express) connects Bao’an International Airport to downtown in 30-40 minutes, ideal for arrivals.
2. Get Around in Shenzhen by Public Bus
Buses complement the metro, reaching suburban scenic spots and residential areas not covered by rails, such as Yangtai Mountain Forest Park and Xichong Beach. The network includes regular buses (CNY 2), air-conditioned express buses (CNY 3-CNY 5), and cross-district long-distance buses. Payment supports Shenzhen Tong, mobile bus codes, or cash (exact change recommended). Most buses are electric, offering quiet, eco-friendly rides, and many routes extend late into the night to match metro operating hours.
3. Get Around in Shenzhen by Taxi & Ride-Hailing
Taxis are readily available at transit hubs, hotels, and tourist areas, with fares starting at CNY 10 (first 2 km) for regular taxis. For smoother communication, have your destination written in Chinese. Ride-hailing apps like DiDi Chuxing are more popular locally—they allow fare estimation, pre-booking, and even English-language settings, making it easy for foreign travelers. Additionally, premium options like DiDi Premier (business cars) are available for added comfort.
4. Get Around in Shenzhen by Shared Mobility (Bikes & E-Scooters)
For short distances (1-3 km) or exploring pedestrian-friendly areas, shared bikes and e-scooters are ubiquitous. They’re perfect for cruising along Shenzhen Bay Coastal Leisure Belt, OCT Loft, or Haixinsha Island. Renting is affordable (CNY 2-CNY 5 per 30 minutes) via apps like Meituan, Hellobike, or Mobike. Note that parking in designated zones is mandatory to avoid fines, and e-scooters are prohibited on major roads during peak hours.
5. Get Around in Shenzhen by Intercity & Scenic Shuttles
*Airport Shuttles: Besides Metro Line 11, Bao’an International Airport offers shuttle buses to major districts (e.g., Futian, Luohu) for ¥20-¥30, operating every 20-30 minutes.  
*Scenic Shuttles: Popular tourist areas like Dafen Oil Painting Village and Longgang Universiade Center have dedicated tourist shuttles connecting to nearby metro stations, often with discounted “ticket + shuttle” packages.  
*Intercity Rails: For day trips to nearby cities (e.g., Dongguan, Huizhou), high-speed intercity trains from Shenzhen North or Futian Station are fast and affordable, expanding your travel scope easily.

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.

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.

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 Private Cars
Suitable for family trips or groups, with self-driving or private transfer options.
Routes: Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge/Shenzhen Bay Port/Huanggang Port-Guangzhou-Shenzhen Coastal Expressway-Shenzhen.
Required Documents: Hong Kong Mainland Travel Permit for Vehicles, driver's Mainland travel document.
Costs: Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge toll CNY 150, highway fees CNY 50-CNY 70, fuel costsCNY 80-CNY 120.

The Best Way to Travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen  
Recommended Option: High-Speed Rail
Core Reasons:
1. Unmatched Efficiency: As the fastest cross-border transportation mode, it shortens the journey between core hubs of Hong Kong and Shenzhen to 14–45 minutes, far outperforming buses, ferries, or taxis in travel time. 
2. Balanced Comfort & Cost: It offers a perfect blend of comfort (spacious seats, power outlets, luggage racks) and cost-effectiveness. The second-class fare is affordable for most travelers, avoiding the high cost of taxis/private cars and the crowding of minibuses/MTR. 
3. Superior Convenience: With frequent departures (10–30 minutes per trip during peak hours) from Hong Kong West Kowloon Station (a well-connected transit hub) to key Shenzhen stations (Futian, Shenzhen North, etc.), it links directly to both cities’ metro networks, enabling seamless transfers to downtown areas. 
4. Reliable Experience: Equipped with mature facilities and simple ticketing/boarding procedures (supporting e-tickets and face recognition), it minimizes travel uncertainties like traffic jams (for road transport) or schedule limitations (for ferries/minibuses).

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.

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