Explore the Artistic Wonders of Dafen Oil Painting Village

Hello, I’m Michael Zhang, a seasoned global traveler with a passion for exploring culturally rich and historically significant destinations around the world. This time, I invite you to join me on a journey to Dafen Oil Painting Village in Shenzhen, China—an enchanting hub of artistic expression.

Introduction to Dafen Oil Painting Village

Dafen Oil Painting Village, recognized as the premier hub for oil painting in China, hosts over 600 galleries and is home to more than 10,000 artists and painters. For anyone with an interest in oil paintings, a visit to Dafen is a must. This village is a vibrant tapestry of art; the air is infused with a stimulating scent of dopamine, and every corner brims with canvases, drafts, and paints. The walls are adorned with colorful graffiti, where the hues of different dimensions blend and collide, creating a feast for the eyes.

• Address: Buji Residential District, Dafen Community, Longgang, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China. (Apple Maps / Amap)
• Opening Hours: Open 24 hours. Most shops operate from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
• Recommended Visit Duration: 3-4 hours.
• Best Seasons to Visit: All year round.

Why You Need to Visit Dafen Oil Painting Village

Rich Artistic Atmosphere

Dafen Oil Painting Village captivates countless art enthusiasts and visitors with its profound artistic ambiance. With over 600 galleries and studios, the village draws more than 10,000 painters and artists, showcasing a diverse array of oil paintings ranging from classical to contemporary, imitation to originality. Beyond artwork, Dafen offers a variety of cultural activities such as art exhibitions, interactive zones, and unique cafes, allowing visitors to enjoy leisurely moments amidst art appreciation.

Abundant Cultural Activities

For those who enjoy painting, Dafen Oil Painting Village offers numerous oil painting workshops where visitors can immerse themselves in the joy of painting. Additionally, the Dafen Art Museum features eight galleries with a broad spectrum of artworks including oil paintings, ink wash paintings, and calligraphy, catering especially to art aficionados. Regular art talks and workshops also provide the public with opportunities to engage directly with artists, gaining deeper insights into the allure of oil painting.

Things to Do in Dafen Oil Painting Village

Dafen Art Museum

Dafen Art Museum stands as the largest art museum in Shenzhen and the first in China to be integrated within an art industry park. Admission is free, and the museum hosts various art exhibitions periodically. This public three-story building covers a total exhibition area of 6,300 square meters with 2,080 meters of exhibition space.

• Opening Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, last admission at 5:00 PM. Closed on Mondays (except holidays).
• Admission: Free (charges may apply for special exhibitions).

Oil Painting Experience

Upon entering the village, you’ll encounter countless studios offering immersive painting experiences. For just 30 RMB, even those without any artistic background can paint under the guidance of experienced instructors. In Dafen, art is accessible, allowing everyone to embrace their inner artist.

• Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.
• Cost: 30-50 RMB per painting, additional 10 RMB for framing.

Recommended Shops Near Dafen Oil Painting Village

Yi Jianxiaopu

• Why We Love It: This boutique offers a delightful selection of jewelry, bags, hats, and aromatherapy products. The staff are exceptionally gentle and patient.
• Address: 1-5, Old Wei East Tenth Lane, Dafen Oil Painting Village, Buji Street, Longgang District, Shenzhen. (Apple Maps / Amap)
• Hours of Operation: Monday to Sunday, 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM.

Yichuangyi Art Space

• Why We Love It: A space where you can enjoy coffee, read books, and shop for a variety of items including cups and hats. The decor is quite stylish.
• Address: Ground Floor, No.7 Old Wei East Fifth Lane, Dafen Village, Buji, Longgang District, Shenzhen. (Apple Maps / Amap)
• Hours of Operation: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.

Buji Art Store

• Why We Love It: “Come to Buji, no rush.” This charming shop offers an array of boutique items, fridge magnets, and greeting cards perfect for leisurely browsing.
• Address: No. 2, Old Wei East Thirteenth Lane, Dafen Village, Longgang District, Shenzhen. (Apple Maps / Amap)
• Hours of Operation: Monday to Sunday, 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM.

Recommended Local Eats Near Dafen Oil Painting Village

Xia Jie Characteristic Snacks

• Why We Love It: Savor the flavors of Hainan sour noodles, Qingbu Liang, special fried noodles, and delicious pork intestine noodles.
• Address: No.2478 Longgang Avenue, Longgang District, Shenzhen. (Apple Maps / Amap)
• Hours of Operation: Daily from 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM.
• Average Price: 29 RMB per person.

Yihe Char Siu

• Why We Love It: Enjoy succulent roasted pork and flavorful seaweed rice.
• Address: 101, No.3 Jianbei Second Alley, Dafen Village, Buji Street, Longgang District, Shenzhen. (Apple Maps / Amap)
• Hours of Operation: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
• Average Price: 39 RMB per person.

Recommended Hotels Near Dafen Oil Painting Village

Dafen Oil Painting Village is located quite far from the downtown area and there are no other attractions nearby. Therefore, visitors usually stay in the Futian or Nanshan districts of Shenzhen and choose to spend half a day traveling from the city center by subway to visit Dafen Oil Painting Village. You can check our hotel recommendations for the Shenzhen Futian and Nanshan districts in “Shenzhen Hotel Recommendations“

If you wish to stay near Dafen Oil Painting Village, we have carefully selected a few hotels for recommendation, see below.

Vienna International Hotel (Shenzhen Buji Dafen Metro Station)

• Location: 10-minute walk from Dafen Oil Painting Village, 20-minute walk from Dafen Metro Station
• Price Range: CNY 220
• Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
• Rating: Trip 4.6
• Special Amenities: Laundry room

The hotel is located close to Dafen Oil Painting Village with a shopping mall nearby and various dining options around. The only drawback is the distance to the metro station, but there are several bus routes available downstairs, making transportation reasonably convenient.

Hotel facilities are comprehensive, rooms are clean and odor-free, beds are especially comfortable, and the environment is clean and tidy.

Dongfang Banshan Hotel

• Location: 15-minute walk from Dafen Oil Painting Village, 13-minute walk from Dafen Metro Station
• Price Range: CNY 250
• Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
• Rating: Trip 4.3
• Special Amenities: Laundry room, triple rooms, family rooms

Located close to Dafen Oil Painting Village and nearby metro station. The hotel is situated on a hillside with fresh air, opposite a sports park. Note that walking from Dafen Metro Station involves a slope, which can be tiring with luggage. Alternatively, a 15-minute walk from Shiyaling Metro Station is on flat ground.

Rooms are spacious with a logical layout, clean, and the white bedding is noticeably clean and comfortable. Shower water pressure is strong, and the breakfast offers a variety of tasty options.

How to Get to Dafen Oil Painting Village from Downtown Shenzhen

Subway

Reaching Dafen Oil Painting Village is straightforward via the Shenzhen Metro Line 3. Disembark at Dafen Station, and from Exit A1, it’s about a 460-meter walk along the street. Clear signage will guide you directly to the entrance of Dafen Oil Painting Village.

Taxi/Ride-hailing Service

If you opt for a taxi or a ride-hailing service, the journey from downtown Shenzhen to Dafen Oil Painting Village takes about 30 minutes and costs approximately 100 RMB. This is a quick and comfortable mode of transportation, especially suitable for those in a hurry or carrying more luggage.

How to Get to Dafen Oil Painting Village from Shenzhen Bao’an Airport

Subway

Starting from Shenzhen Bao’an Airport, take the Metro Line 11 and then transfer to Metro Line 3 at Chegongmiao Station, which takes you directly to Dafen Station. The entire journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs 9 RMB. This is an economical option that also offers a slice of local life.

Taxi/Ride-hailing Service

Taking a taxi or ride-hailing service from Shenzhen Bao’an Airport to Dafen Oil Painting Village is faster, requiring about 1 hour of travel time and costing approximately 45 RMB. This method is particularly convenient for those with heavy baggage or needing more personalized service.

FAQ

Is Dafen Oil Painting Village accessible with strollers and wheelchairs?

Dafen Oil Painting Village is quite accessible with spacious main passageways and galleries suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Most areas are equipped with facilities for accessibility, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy a comfortable tour. However, since some galleries are housed in older buildings with potential steps or thresholds, it is advisable to contact specific galleries ahead of your visit to check for special access provisions or additional assistance.

Where can I store luggage?

Luggage storage is available at Dafen Art Museum, accommodating up to 20-inch bags. However, overnight storage is not permitted.