Longgang rolls out special offers for overseas travelers

Overseas travelers who book group tours through Shenzhen-based inbound travel agencies can enjoy a special tech-and-Hakka cultural experience in Longgang from now through November, according to a press conference held in Shenzhen yesterday.

The event, hosted by the Longgang District Culture, Radio, Television, Tourism and Sports Bureau and organized by the Shenzhen Tourism Association, attracted representatives from more than 80 local travel agencies.

Lian Miaoli, deputy secretary-general of the Shenzhen Tourism Association, explains to travel agencies how to apply for Longgang's new program. Photos courtesy of the Shenzhen Tourism Association

Under the new program, Shenzhen-based travel agencies with inbound tourism qualifications can offer foreign tour groups free experiences at Gankeng Ancient Town and the world’s first robot 6S store in Longgang.

At the robot 6S store, groups can book an outdoor robot performance lasting about 15 minutes. The robots deliver a coordinated show through movement, rhythm and teamwork. Visitors can also join interactive activities or take photos with the robots, making the experience especially suitable for student study tours, family trips and technology exchange groups.

At Gankeng Ancient Town, which features distinctive Hakka architecture and atmosphere, tour groups may choose one of three free intangible cultural heritage experiences: making mugwort hammers, crafting sachets or making wooden chopsticks. All materials and tools are provided by the organizers, and visitors can take their finished items home as souvenirs.

The launch event for Longgang District's special offer for overseas travelers attracts representatives from more than 80 local travel agencies.

Travel agencies can design half-day or full-day themed routes based on group interests, length of stay and availability at each site. For visitors interested in culture and history, the route can extend from Gankeng Ancient Town to Hehu New Residence, where Hakka enclosed buildings offer a glimpse into family life and settlement culture, and then to Dafen Oil Painting Village, where oil painting has become part of the streets, studios and daily city life.

For those looking to experience urban vitality, the robot technology experience can be combined with venues such as the Longgang International Arts Center and the Shenzhen Universiade Center, allowing visitors to explore a mix of performing arts, digital art, tech interactions, reading and sports events.

For industry exchanges and youth study tours, visitors can also explore technology and industrial sites such as the BYD History Museum and Longgang Energy Ecological Park, gaining insight into how Shenzhen’s industrial innovation is integrated into production, transportation and urban operations.

Technology industries and Hakka culture are two of Longgang’s most distinctive tourism resources. By bringing them together in one journey, Longgang hopes overseas visitors will see a more vibrant Shenzhen — one that is eager to create the future while staying rooted in its cultural heritage.