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Hong Kong to Shenzhen: Top 5 Ways by Train, Metro, Bus, Ferry and Taxi

Written by Senior Expert Celine Schneider|Updated: 2023-10-31

From Hong Kong to Shenzhen, just a border away, these vibrant cities on both sides of the Pearl River offer a seamless blend of business and leisure, making them important tourist destinations. From the iconic skyline of the "city that never sleeps" to the panoramic views atop Victoria Peak, to the exploration of the miniature world at Window of the World and the cultural journey through Chinese traditions at the Chinese Folk Culture Village, a dynamic world of experiences awaits you.

But how can you embark on this journey and make the transition from Hong Kong to Shenzhen? This Hong Kong to Shenzhen comprehensive guide will cover the 5 top modes of transportation: trains, metros, buses, ferries, and taxis. Additionally, we'll explore the transportation options from Hong Kong Airport to Shenzhen, helping you find the best routes for your next trip!

Content Preview

  • triangleHong Kong to Shenzhen Distance and Travel Time
  • triangleHong Kong to Shenzhen Train (14-23 Min) - Fast and Convenient
  • triangleHong Kong to Shenzhen Metro (MTR) East Rail Line: Cheapest and Most Recommended
  • triangleHong Kong to Shenzhen City Bus/Cross-border Bus: Flexible Way
  • triangleHong Kong to Shenzhen Ferry: 0.5-1 Hour unique Experience
  • triangleHong Kong to Shenzhen by Taxi/Private Car - Customized and Direct
  • triangleHow to Travel from Hong Kong Airport to Shenzhen
  • triangleIs a Visa Needed to Travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen?
  • triangleHow to Plan A Hong Kong Shenzhen Tour
  • triangleExplore Hong Kong and Greater Bay Area With Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT)

Hong Kong to Shenzhen Distance and Travel Time

Hong Kong and Shenzhen are neighboring cities, closely connected geographically and economically. The straight-line distance between the two cities is approximately 30 kilometers, but the actual travel distance depends on the mode of transportation and specific starting and ending points of the journey.

Taking the high-speed train is the most direct route, with a travel time of about 14 minutes from West Kowloon Station in Hong Kong to Futian Station in Shenzhen, covering a distance of approximately 26 kilometers. Traveling by MTR (Mass Transit Railway) takes around 1-2 hours, while bus travel can take anywhere from 1-4 hours. If you opt for a ferry, the journey typically takes around 0.5-1 hour.

Hong Kong to Shenzhen Train (14-23 Min) - Fast and Convenient

In just a quick 14-23 minutes, you'll find yourself in the heart of Shenzhen city center from the bustling West Kowloon Station in downtown Hong Kong! Hop on the high-speed train, and you'll be amazed at how fast and convenient it is to travel between these two vibrant cities. The best part? You can breeze through customs right at Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, saving you the hassle of heading to the border. With over 110 trains running daily and wait times as short as 5-20 minutes, you'll have endless possibilities for your travel plans.

Once you arrive at Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, you'll have two fantastic options to reach Shenzhen: Futian Station and Shenzhen North Station. If you're looking for a central location that's close to attractions like Window of the World and Chinese Folk Culture Village, Futian Station is the ideal choice. Just remember to double-check the train route before hopping on, as not all trains make a stop there.

Hong Kong to Shenzhen High-Speed Train Schedule & Tickets

(Update on Oct.12.2023)

Shenzhen Futian Station
Shenzhen North Station
Shenzhen Futian Station
Shenzhen North Station
Train No. Departure - Arrival Duration
G5624 07:03 - 07:21 18 min
G5636 07:36 - 08:00 24 min
G6552 08:06 - 08:24 18 min
G5812 09:15 - 09:29 14 min
G5816 10:23 - 10:37 14 min
G5818 11:25 - 11:39 14 min
G6384 12:00 - 12:19 19 min
G5802 13:01 - 13:15 14 min
G6504 22:39 - 22:57 18 min
Business Class Seat (CNY): 204-226 RMB
First Class Seat (CNY): 109-120 RMB
Second Class Seat (CNY): 68-75 RMB

(The information provided is for reference only and subject to changes. For hassle-free reservations or the latest information, feel free to contact us for booking services.)

1. There are 40 trains daily from West Kowloon Station in Hong Kong to Futian, and 73 trains to Shenzhen North.

2. The service operates from 7:00 AM to 10:39 PM.

Departure Procedures at West Kowloon Station

The futuristic Hong Kong West Kowloon Station is located in Jordon, Yau Tsim Mong District, West Kowloon, Hong Kong (香港九龙油麻地区佐敦). It's conveniently situated just around 1 kilometer away from Tsim Sha Tsui and Victoria Harbour, allowing tourists in the city center to easily catch the high-speed train to Shenzhen.

Departure Procedures

Arrive 30 mins early: Allow at least 30 minutes for security checks, customs clearance, and boarding.

B1 (Ticketing Hall + Security Check): Present your passport or ID and go through security screening with your luggage. Take the escalator to the Departure Hall at B3.

B3 (Hong Kong and China Customs Check): Present your passport for Hong Kong immigration inspection and proceed to the China immigration check on the same floor.

B4 (Boarding): After immigration, take the escalator to the B4 platform.

Friendly Reminder: Before boarding the high-speed train, you'll go through security checks and immigration inspections at Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, similar to procedures at an airport. Please ensure you have obtained a valid visa to enter mainland China in advance.

Learn more about Hong Kong - Shenzhen High Speed Train >>

Hong Kong West Kowloon Station
Take a train to Shenzhen at Hong Kong West Kowloon Station
Hong Kong West Kowloon Station
Hong Kong West Kowloon Station

Hong Kong to Shenzhen Metro (MTR) East Rail Line: Cheapest and Most Recommended

You can travel from anywhere in Hong Kong to Shenzhen by the MTR for as little as 5-8 USD, making it the most popular and cost-effective transportation option. Remember to take the MTR East Rail Line (light blue line) to the final stations of Lo Wu (羅湖) or Lok Ma Chau (落馬洲), where you can go through immigration procedures and then continue your journey on the Shenzhen Metro.

The East Rail Line starts from Hung Hom Station (红磡) in Hong Kong, which is conveniently located near the city center of Tsim Sha Tsui. It takes ca. 1 hour to reach the border. You can either use a valid Chinese visa or apply for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at the Lo Wu or Lok Ma Chau stations.

If you choose VOA, Lo Wu is the more convenient choice as you can handle the visa process nearby and then seamlessly transfer to the Shenzhen Metro. If you plan to apply for VOA at Lok Ma Chau, you will need to walk about 15 minutes to reach the Futian Port to complete the immigration procedures.

Option 1: Hong Kong - Lo Wu (罗湖) - Luohu Port (罗湖口岸) - Shenzhen Metro Line 1 – Shenzhen

You can take the Hong Kong MTR East Rail Line to Lo Wu Station (羅湖) and proceed to the Lo Wu Control Point for customs and immigration procedures between Hong Kong and Mainland China. The Shenzhen Metro Line 1 Lo Wu Station is located within the same building, providing convenient transportation. This line connects various parts of the city, allowing you to reach your final destination with ease.

Duration: 50 minutes

Price: HK$44

Lo Wu Control Point Opening Hours: 6:30-24:00

Option 2: Hong Kong - Lok Ma Chau (落马洲) - Futian Port (福田口岸) - Shenzhen Metro Line 4 – Shenzhen

If your next destination is in the Shenzhen city center, it's recommended to take the Hong Kong MTR East Rail Line to Lok Ma Chau Station (落馬洲), then walk for about 15 minutes to reach the Futian Port for customs and immigration procedures. After that, you can take the Shenzhen Metro Line 4 from Futian Port Station (福田口岸站) to reach your final destination.

Duration: 50 minutes

Price: HK$44

Futian Port Opening Hours: 6:30-22:30

Lo Wu
Lo Wu (羅湖)
Lok Ma Chau Station (落馬洲)
Lok Ma Chau Station (落馬洲)

Hong Kong to Shenzhen City Bus/Cross-border Bus: Flexible Way

Stations: Hong Kong (25 stations) - Shenzhen (12 stations)

Duration: 1.5-2 hours

Price: HK$44-201

Port: Luohu Port (6:30 – 00:00), Huanggang Port (24 hours), Shenzhen Bay Port (24 hours), Liantang Port (7:00-22:00), Futian Port (6:30-22:30), Wenjindu Port (7:00-22:00)

The bus/cross-border bus Hong Kong to Shenzhen with hundreds of daily trips can be your most flexible option for traveling between the two cities. There are numerous bus stops near MTR stations in Hong Kong, mainly concentrated in Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories, with destinations primarily located in Shenzhen's Lo Wu, Futian, and Nanshan areas.

If you're a night owl, the bus/cross-border bus to Huanggang Port/ Shenzhen Bay Port would be your preferred choices. It operates 24 hours a day, allowing you to handle visa-on-arrival and immigration procedures at any time.

Hong Kong to Shenzhen Ferry: 0.5-1 Hour unique Experience

Duration: 0.5-1 hour

Price: HK$117-270

Route 1: Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal - Shenzhen Shekou Port

Route 2: Hong Kong International Airport Skypier - Shenzhen Shekou Port

Route 3: Hong Kong International Airport Skypier - Shenzhen Fuyong Port

For a unique, scenic, and efficient travel experience from Hong Kong to Shenzhen, taking a ferry can be an excellent choice. The ferry ride typically takes between 30 minutes and 1 hour, making it a swift method of crossing the border.

If you plan to travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen by ferry, the terminal located within the Hong Kong Airport can take you directly to your destination, bypassing any potential overland transportation and ensuring timely arrival. Another terminal, the Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal, is located across Victoria Harbour, providing a comfortable and enjoyable cruise option for tourists in the Hong Kong city center who wish to travel to Shenzhen.

From To Duration Price Departure Time
Hong Kong International Airport(香港机场海天码头) Shekou Cruise Center(蛇口邮轮中心) 30 min HK$180-300 08:15, 09:50, 11:00,12:30 to 20:30 every an hour21:20, 21:45
Shenzhen Airport(深圳机场福永码头) 50 min HK$295-345 10:15, 14:30, 16:50, 20:00
HK Macau Ferry Terminal(香港港澳码头) Shekou Cruise Center(蛇口邮轮中心) 60 min HK$120-150 09:00, 11:30, 13:15, 14:20, 15:30, 17:00, 18:00, 19:30, 20:30
Cross-border Bus
Hong Kong to Shenzhen City Bus/Cross-border Bus
Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal
Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal

Hong Kong to Shenzhen by Taxi/Private Car - Customized and Direct

Duration: 1-2 hours

For travelers seeking personalized and direct transportation options, especially for business trips, taking a taxi/private car from Hong Kong to Shenzhen is a good choice. You can rent a taxi or private car from anywhere in Hong Kong, including the airport, hotels, or any location within the city. The journey to Shenzhen typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the time spent at the border checkpoints.

Asia Odyssey Travel can arrange private transportation for your trip, ensuring safety and comfort. We will tailor the transportation and design the route according to your travel preferences until it becomes your ideal journey. Contact us, and we will respond within 24 hours.

How to Travel from Hong Kong Airport to Shenzhen

Airport Bus (Cross-Border Bus): HKD45-220

Cross-border bus services provide transportation from Hong Kong International Airport to various locations in Shenzhen. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, and tickets can be purchased at the "Mainland Coaches" counter in the arrival hall.

Ferry: HKD180-190

Ferries to Shenzhen (Shekou and Fuyong Ports) depart directly from the SkyPier at Hong Kong International Airport. This option is particularly convenient as you can bypass the Hong Kong airport immigration and customs, saving you time.

Other Combined Transportation

You can also consider taking the Airport Express to West Kowloon Station and then transferring to high-speed rail or taking a bus/MTR to reach Shenzhen.

Learn more about Hong Kong Transportation >>

Is a Visa Needed to Travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen?

Yes, a visa is generally required to travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen, as they are considered separate immigration areas. There are several options for obtaining a visa:

Regular Chinese Visa: Most travelers need to apply for a regular Chinese visa in advance from a Chinese embassy or consulate in their home country.

Visa on Arrival (VOA): Some nationalities may be eligible for a Shenzhen Visa on Arrival, which can be obtained at the border crossing points at Lo Wu (Luohu) or Huanggang. The VOA is typically valid for up to 5 days and allows travel within the Shenzhen area only.

144-hour Visa-Free Transit: Citizens of certain countries may be eligible for the 144-hour Visa-Free Transit, which allows them to stay in the Guangdong Province (including Shenzhen) for up to 144 hours (6 days) without a visa if they are in transit to a third country or region.

It's important to note that visa requirements and eligibility can vary based on nationality, and the policies may change, so it's best to check the most up-to-date information before your trip.

How to Plan A Hong Kong Shenzhen Tour

If you're looking to explore neighboring Shenzhen while traveling in Hong Kong, that's a great choice! With ca. 3-4 days, you can experience the essence of both Hong Kong and Shenzhen. It recommends allocating about 2 days to each city.

During your stay in Hong Kong, you can marvel at the stunning cityscape from Victoria Peak, immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Wong Tai Sin Temple, and find tranquility at Po Lin Monastery. In Shenzhen, you can visit Window of the World to admire miniature replicas of world-famous landmarks, and explore the diverse traditions and customs of China at the Chinese Folk Culture Village.

Explore Hong Kong and Greater Bay Area With Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT)

Asia Odyssey Travel operates with a local office and a team of experts based in Hong Kong, providing unparalleled insights into the city and its neighboring regions. Our diverse range of tours includes classic Hong Kong tours, layover tours, Lantau Island tours, family tours, and captivating Greater Bay Area joint tours that encompass Hong Kong, Macau, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou.

Moreover, we offer seamless itineraries for long-term holidaymakers departing from Hong Kong, connecting you to awe-inspiring destinations like Guilin, Chengdu, Xi'an, Shanghai, Beijing, the Yangtze River, and even Tibet. Immerse yourself in the wonders of a remarkable journey across China.

Regardless of your preferences, our professional travel consultants are dedicated to tailoring your travel plan with the best local prices, ensuring personalized arrangements in every aspect of your trip. Contact us now to embark on your dream adventure!

If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.

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