Shenzhen, though a modern metropolis, is home to some mountains worth trekking.

During workday rush hours, the Dasha River Ecological Corridor, running through the Nanshan District from the north to the south, is always bustling with commuters on bikes. As the corridor connects the business centers of the Shenzhen Bay area and Shenzhen Hi-Tech Industrial Park in Yuehai Subdistrict with the higher education block of Shenzhen University Town in Xili Subdistrict, the ecological corridor not only relieves traffic pressure but also provides a healthy slow traffic system for bike commuters. At dawn and dusk every day, joggers, alone or in groups, run along the banks of the corridor to enjoy a healthy life.

Keep the following list handy that maps out some of the less crowded routes and destinations in Shenzhen, and make a plan for an outdoor weekend.

Nicknamed "King of Transfer," Line 12, with 33 stations, covers most areas in the far west Shenzhen and encourages passengers to explore more places via transfer stations on lines 1, 2, 5, 9 11 and 20.

The opening of Shenzhen Metro Line 14 on Oct. 28 has made traveling to Pingshan and Longgang easier. Shenzhen's quest for an ever-more extensive Metro system continues as Line 16 started operation Wednesday, through which passengers can quickly get to more places in Pingshan and Longgang.

Taking a stroll in Dawan Ancestral Residence or Longtian Ancestral Residence, admiring stunning artworks at the Pingshan Art Museum, having a good read at Pingshan Library, enjoying classical music or an avant-garde dance show at Pingshan Theater, and meeting international talents at Pingshan International Talent Community, these are all easily achievable now by taking Shenzhen Metro Line 14.

Not far from Lianhua Hill Park in downtown Futian, Bijia Mountain Park is another "green gem" hidden in the city's center. This year, a nature education trail and other facilities have been added to the park, making it a good destination to take children for fun.

New sports venues and parks such as Shenyun Cultural and Sports Park, Mount Jiulong Sports Park, Children's rooftop garden and Bell Park are waiting for you to explore.