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A scorching hot summer day in Gankeng Ancient Town

A scorching hot summer in Gankeng Ancient Town is not just a trip; it’s a full-blown stress test on my personal thermal infrastructure. Yet, the moment I crossed into the town’s historic corridor, the heat became a secondary stakeholder. The town wasn’t crowded at all, which made walking around surprisingly easy. A lot of people were dressed in traditional costumes, taking photos in the old streets and little corners of the town. Their colorful outfits and props added a lively touch to the whole place, almost like the town had its own built-in photo shoot vibe. If you’re planning a visit, a quick pro tip: bring an umbrella or cap to shield yourself from the sun, stay hydrated, and take cooling breaks whenever you can. It keeps the whole experience smooth and enjoyable, even under the blazing heat.
Posted: Nov 25, 2025
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Gankeng Hakka Town

4.3/5576 reviews | Night view
Shenzhen
No. 3 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Shenzhen
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【In Shenzhen, I found a Hakka ancient town that steals time】——Here, there are no hurried footsteps, only the gently worn bluestone paths polished by the years---

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The city of Shenzhen has always felt fast-paced, but the ancient town of Ganhang is a place to slow down. This birthday I chose to come here to feel the Hakka culture that is different from the new-school life. It is comfortable and warm. It is a special memory. 🌆Hotel – Nanyang Hotel This time I entered the Jing Nanyang Hotel, once I entered the Nanyang retro atmosphere, the reception has characteristic Nanyang decorations, very sincere ~ The most surprising is the birthday decoration the waiter helped me prepare: the bed is covered with balloons and dolls, and colorful lanterns. The waiter's attitude was super good, both check-in and questions were very polite, really a plus. 🏡 Explore the ancient town of Gan Hang Gan Hang is a well-preserved Hakka market in Shenzhen. When you walk in, you will immediately see a row of antique Chinese-style buildings. Each house has a different story. Ganhang Ancient Town (Address: No. 18, Ganli Road, Jihua Street, Longgang District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province) is open all year round. 🍽️Must-eat Hakka food How can you not try their authentic Hakka cuisine when you come here? Excellent both sweet and salty. I recommend a few snack shops where you can try stuffed tofu, salted chicken, and Hakka stir-fry. It's really authentic. Remember to go early, many shops close fast by night ~ 📚Featured Cultural and Creative – Cat’s Sky City Concept Bookstore The bookstore (Address: No. 18, Ganli Road, Longgang District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province) has a literary and artistic atmosphere, and the colorful lanterns at night are more sensational. There are many books and cultural and creative products inside. Have a cup of coffee and look out the window at the people coming and going. You can hea an afternoon and you won't be bored. 🌳History & Culture – Gan Hang Museum & Exhibition Hall Ganhang Exhibition Hall (Address: Inside Ganhang Hakka Town, Ganli Road, Jihua Street, Longgang District, opening hours: 09:00–17:30) Don’t miss it, you can see the rise and fall of Ganhang Ancient Town and Hakka history. There are also ancient trees Fupo (Address: Ganhe Road, Jihua Street, Longgang District) in the surrounding area, where you can see the whole forest and cultural and creative installations, great for photography. 🏞️ Cultural and Creative Space – Happy Time Gushuli Happy Time Cultural and Creative Space (Address: On the right side of the escalator at Fuzhong Plaza, Yongping Cultural and Creative Park, Ganhe Road) has a small and fresh design. There are often cultural and creative exhibitions and activities. 📸 Check-in attraction recommendations - In the Ancient Tree - Stairs of Happiness (All kinds of colorful stairs are great for photography) - Zhuangyuan Mansion Scenic Area (antique architecture, feel the atmosphere of "bookish family") 🎂Birthday itinerary tips If you also want to spend your birthday in Gan Hang Ancient Town, it is recommended to communicate with the hotel in advance about the birthday decoration, and make reservations for specialty restaurants and cultural and creative spaces, so that the whole birthday itinerary will be smooth and you don't have to rush. This time came on a sunny day, invincible for photography, and at night the lanterns hung high, under the Chinese architecture the whole atmosphere is very beautiful, whether with friends, family or couples, very tasty! After so many years of life and death, my birthday finally met a slow and cultural place. Shenzhen is worth exploring in depth! #Ganhang Ancient Town #Shenzhen Cultural and Creative #Hakka Food #Nanyang Hotel Birthday #Ancient Town Slow Life

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Gankeng Hakka Town

Exploring Shenzhen gave me a vibrant slice of China’s tech-meets-tradition culture 😍✨. Here’s how I hit the coolest spots — and snagged some serious convenience, eats, and retail therapy. Top Spots to Visit Gentle Monster – If you're into ultra-modern retail experiences, this eyewear store is an absolute must! The avant-garde displays will blow your mind. Pop by ‘To Summer’ nearby for unique perfumes that capture the city’s vibe (bonus points for the stylish interiors!). Don’t skip local faves: grab a creamy Heytea or Chagee milk tea on the go — these chains are everywhere and legendary for a reason. Gankeng Hakka Town (Hakka Town, Gankeng, Buji Street, Longgang District) – Open year-round, all day. This is where old-school Hakka culture meets photogenic village life. Explore winding lanes, sample authentic meats, and snap shots of parrot-green plants layered against classic architecture — perfect for sunny days! Insider Tips Forget taxi lines: I got around easily using DiDi via WeChat. No language headache, just seamless city-hopping. Both cities are packed with modern architecture and creative outdoor spaces — save time for random strolls! If you love close-up details and local flavors, keep an eye out for night markets and BBQ meat stalls. Food & Transport Hacks Cashless is king, so top up your WeChat pay. Try local street eats for unbeatable flavors (go spicy and meaty in Shenzhen, creamy with snacks in Shanghai). Public transport is efficient but for flexibility, DiDi is the way to go. #ChinaTravel #ShanghaiVibes #ShenzhenFinds #TechAndTradition #HeyteaRun

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Gankeng Day Trip

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Experience the romance of flower fields and countryside right here in Shenzhen! This trip features two top photo spots: Gankeng Ancient Town Flower Valley and Urban Countryside. A single 30 RMB ticket to Flower Valley offers a truly therapeutic experience. Whether it's sunflowers, tulips, or vibrant red roses, you'll have countless photo opportunities! (A must-visit for girls on social media 🌻🌹) Combined with the fresh feel of Urban Countryside, a half-day getaway is easily within reach! Even my inland colleagues in Shenzhen say it's perfect for a weekend getaway, allowing you to stroll through flower fields without a long bus ride. 🗺️Recommended Itinerary First Stop: Gankeng Ancient Town Flower Valley Gankeng Ancient Town already boasts a rich Hakka cultural atmosphere, and its newly popular Flower Valley is a paradise for photos! Even on a cloudy day, the flower fields remain vibrant, especially the vast expanses of sunflowers and tulips, earning it the nickname "mini Provence" among netizens. Admission is only 30 RMB, a great deal! The flower field is vast, offering excellent opportunities for close-up shots as well as stunning panoramic views, all without the crowds. Tips: Visit in the morning or evening to avoid the midday sun for a more dreamlike feel. Even on a rainy day, you can capture a soft, understated atmosphere. 📍Address: No. 18, Ganli Road, Gankeng Community, Jihua Street, Longgang District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province ⏰Opening Hours: Open all year round Second Stop: Urban Pastoral Not far from Gankeng Ancient Town, Urban Pastoral is not only a great place for natural scenery photography, but also features various crops and flowers, creating a relaxed atmosphere with incredibly fresh air. The entrance is right next to the Xiaoliangmaozhijia Hotel, making it very easy to find. When you get tired, you can find a local restaurant in the surrounding shops to rest and try authentic hometown dishes. Urban Pastoral is more suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends to experience the slow-paced rural life near the city. 📍Address: Approximately 270 meters northeast of Xiaoliangmaozhijia Hotel, Gankeng Ramp, Longgang District, Shenzhen 🌸Photography Tips: 1. Clothing Suggestion: Choose light-colored, bright clothing for a more striking contrast with the flower sea. 2. Equipment: Bring your own umbrella (for sun protection and as a prop on rainy days); use your phone in portrait mode or with a wide-angle lens to create stunning photos against the natural backdrop of the flower sea. 3. The flowering season in Flower Valley changes, sometimes featuring sunflowers and tulips. It's recommended to check the park's announcements or visit trip.com a week in advance for the latest flower information. 4. Besides the flower sea, Gankeng Ancient Town also boasts many creative shops and specialty restaurants. Lunch can be enjoyed within the ancient town; try Hakka salted chicken and stuffed tofu. 🚗Transportation Guide: Both Gankeng Ancient Town and Urban Pastoral are located in Longgang District. From the city center, take the subway to Longcheng Square Station, then transfer to a taxi (approximately 20 minutes). If driving, you can directly navigate to the above address. There is paid parking nearby. It gets crowded on weekends, so it's recommended to arrive early. ⏰Time Planning: Half a day is sufficient: 2-3 hours for photos at the Gankeng Ancient Town Flower Valley → 1-2 hours for strolling and exploring the urban pastoral area. 🍽️Food Recommendations: There are many traditional Hakka restaurants on the old street of Gankeng Ancient Town, such as Gankeng Food Court, located on the main road of the ancient town. Why not try some authentic Hakka cuisine? ◎Highlights: The flower fields offer great value for money, and the urban pastoral area is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Even on a rainy day, the flower fields retain their dreamlike beauty. With just one ticket and half a day, you can capture hundreds of beautiful photos! #ShenzhenFlowerField #GankengAncientTownGuide #UrbanPastoralSlowLife #ShenzhenWeekendGetaway #FlowerFieldPhotographyTips

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Experience the mesmerizing sea of lights at Gankeng Ancient Town at night

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This weekend's stroll through ancient towns in Shenzhen covers Gankeng Ancient Town in Longgang District and its surrounding most charming attractions: Zhuangyuanfu Scenic Area, Twenty-Four Histories Academy, Forest Collision Exploration Museum, and a stay at the highly-rated Phoenix Hakka Hotel. Highlights of the trip include Gankeng Ancient Town's historical architecture, dazzling nighttime lights, and authentic Hakka cuisine, offering both cultural depth and a relaxing resort atmosphere—perfect for those seeking a slow-paced experience and a blend of old and new in Shenzhen! The highlight of this trip is undoubtedly Gankeng's "Golden Pit Moonlit Lantern Festival," where the entire ancient town transforms into a dreamlike photo spot under the night sky, leaving visitors wanting more. The surrounding area also boasts numerous Hakka restaurants, sure to pique the curiosity of any foodie. With the hotel's complimentary professional photography service, almost every angle yields stunning photos, making it a great choice for photography enthusiasts. 【Attraction Roundup | Gankeng Ancient Town Cultural Stroll Route】 1. Zhuangyuan Mansion Scenic Area (Gankeng Community, Buji Street, Longgang District, Shenzhen) The most authentic starting point for photos in Gankeng, blending ancient official residence style with Hakka characteristics. On holidays, the courtyards are bustling with people, perfect for taking photos in the morning and immersing yourself in historical atmosphere. Opening Hours: 09:30-20:00, Open year-round 2. Twenty-Four Histories Academy (Gankeng Ancient Town, North District) Upon entering the academy, you'll be surrounded by classical gardens and a scholarly atmosphere. The academy boasts a rich collection, suitable for literary youth, families, or those wanting to experience the charm of traditional Chinese culture. Admission is 49 RMB. After a long walk, you can sit in the courtyard, enjoy tea, and savor a moment of tranquility. Opening Hours: 10:30-21:30, open year-round (last entry at 20:30), weekends 09:30-22:30 (last entry at 21:30) 3. Gankeng Ancient Town (No. 18 Ganli Road, Gankeng Community, Jihua Street) One of the few well-preserved ancient towns in Shenzhen, where traditional Hakka architecture coexists with modern cultural and creative shops. It's recommended to visit in the evening to see the magnificent night view of the "Golden Pit Moonlit Lanterns". There are souvenir shops and snack stalls in the alleys of the ancient town. We recommend trying Hakka salted rice cakes and mugwort cakes on-site, or trying Hakka pot dishes at a nearby well-regarded restaurant. 4. Forest Collision Exploration Hall (No. 18 Ganli Road, Gankeng Ancient Town) Suitable for families or niche travelers, the hall's design blends nature and culture, offering both fun interactive activities and a relaxing time. Spend half an hour leisurely exploring. 【Accommodation Recommendation | Phoenix Hakka Hotel】 Address: Building 5 & 7, Gankeng Ancient Town, Jihua Street Located within the ancient town, it offers convenient access to transportation and dining options. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with a strong Chinese style. The complimentary 30-minute photography experience was highly praised. Quiet and peaceful, it's perfect for a relaxing weekend. The only drawback is that the cleanliness of some rooms could be improved, but overall, the guest experience is excellent. 【Travel Tips】 1. Gankeng Ancient Town has numerous historical buildings, so it gets very crowded on weekends. Pack light to easily navigate the alleys. 2. The nighttime lighting is particularly beautiful; remember to fully charge your phone and camera. Make sure to book photography services in advance. 3. Most restaurants are concentrated on the main street of the ancient town. We recommend visiting the Zhuangyuan Mansion in the morning and enjoying the lantern parade in the evening to experience the atmosphere at different times of day. 4. Shenzhen's weather has been unpredictable in recent years; remember to bring an umbrella and a light jacket. 【Transportation Guide】 Take the subway to "Buji Station" or "Jihua Station," then transfer to a bus or taxi to Gankeng Ancient Town (approximately 15-20 minutes by taxi). If driving, you can park directly in a parking lot near the ancient town to save transfer time. 【Food Recommendations】 Gankeng Ancient Town's main street boasts authentic Hakka restaurants, specializing in salted rice cakes, braised pork with preserved vegetables, and "pen cai" (a traditional Hakka dish). The night market snacks are also excellent; while strolling through the light show in the evening, try the mountain eggs and handmade mochi—a truly nostalgic experience. 【Final Topic】 Looking for a relaxing trip that combines Shenzhen's cultural depth, ancient architecture, and delicious food? Gankeng Ancient Town is the place to be! With its lights, beautiful scenery, rich history, and a one-stop hotel experience, it's perfect for families, friends, or hipsters. #GankengAncientTown #ShenzhenWeekendTrip #HakkaFood #TravelPhotography #HistoricalArchitecture #ShenzhenItinerary

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The newly popular check-in spot in Shenzhen, Gankeng Ancient Town's Chinese-style courtyard, is absolutely amazing!

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Gankeng Hakka Town

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