Dapeng Ancient City

Dapeng Ancient City: Shenzhen's Coastal Defense Fortress

Dapeng Ancient City is a Ming Dynasty coastal defense fortress with a history of over 600 years, located in Dapeng New District, Shenzhen. It is one of the best-preserved ancient military strongholds in China and a national cultural heritage site. The city offers insights into Shenzhen's maritime history and military past, blending ancient architecture with a charming, laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular destination for history buffs and those seeking a cultural escape.

What to See and Do

1. Explore the Ancient City Walls: Walk along the well-preserved city walls, which offer panoramic views of the ancient city and the surrounding area. The walls were built to defend against pirate attacks.

2. Traditional Architecture: Wander through the narrow stone-paved streets and admire the traditional Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, including old residences, ancestral halls, and temples. Many buildings retain their original character.

3. General's Mansion (将军府): Visit the former residences of famous generals, such as Liu Qilong and Lai En, who played crucial roles in defending the coast. These mansions often feature traditional courtyards and historical displays.

4. Tianhou Temple: A temple dedicated to Tianhou (Mazu), the Goddess of the Sea, reflecting the city's strong connection to maritime activities and its history as a coastal defense outpost.

5. Local Shops and Eateries: Discover small shops selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional snacks. You can sample local Hakka cuisine, which is a specialty of the region.

6. Cultural Events: The ancient city sometimes hosts cultural events or folk performances, especially during traditional festivals.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor exploration. The ancient city is lively throughout the day. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends and public holidays.

How to Get There

Dapeng Ancient City is located in Dapeng New District, which is a bit further from central Shenzhen. You can take a bus (e.g., E11 from Futian Bus Station or E26 from Shenzhen North Station) to Dapeng Bus Station, and then transfer to a local bus (e.g., B756, M471) or a taxi to the ancient city.

Travel Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking on stone-paved streets.

• Allow ample time: Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the ancient city thoroughly.

• Combine with coastal attractions: Dapeng New District also features beautiful beaches (like Xichong and Dongchong) and scenic coastal areas, which can be combined with your visit to the ancient city.