Hello! I’m Michael Zhang, a seasoned Chinese travel expert with extensive international travel experience. I have a passion for uncovering the stories behind destinations, particularly those rich in history, culture, and immersive experiences. In this guide, I’ll introduce you to the Splendid China Folk Village in Shenzhen—an incredible destination for experiencing the essence of Chinese culture.

Summary

Introduction to Splendid China Folk Village

Splendid China Folk Village is China’s first large-scale cultural theme park that brings together ethnic arts, traditions, and residential architecture in one location. Spanning over 300,000 square meters, it features 27 villages designed under the guidance of cultural and ethnology experts to authentically represent the charm of China’s minority groups.

  • Address: 9003 Shennan Avenue, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Opening Hours: 10:00–22:00 (Night entry starts at 17:00)
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 4 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Year-round
  • Ticket Price: RMB 220
  • Ticket Purchase: Trip.com Discounts, Klook Deals
entrance sign of Splendid China Folk Village decorated with colorful flowers

Map of Splendid China Folk Village

map of Splendid China Folk Village showing layout and attractions

Why You Should Visit Splendid China Folk Village

Rich Cultural Displays

The Splendid China Folk Village offers an impressive array of cultural experiences, including 82 meticulously crafted miniature landmarks and 28 ethnic villages. The miniature landmarks are arranged according to their actual geographic locations on the map of China, allowing visitors to journey through history and explore the country’s wonders in a single day. The ethnic villages vividly showcase the traditions and architectural styles of China’s 56 ethnic groups, offering deep insights into their unique cultures.

Captivating Performances

Visitors can enjoy a variety of spectacular shows, such as “Oriental Elegance” and “Dragon and Phoenix Dance China.” These performances feature high-quality choreography and stunning visuals that captivate audiences. The park also includes numerous family-friendly activities, such as bumper cars and carousels, as well as a range of delicious local snacks and dishes, making it an ideal destination for families.

Things to Do in Splendid China Folk Village

Major Attractions

82 Miniature Landmarks

Spanning 320,000 square meters, Splendid China Folk Village is a miniature representation of China’s 5,000 years of culture and 9.6 million square kilometers of stunning landscapes. The park features 82 meticulously crafted landmarks arranged geographically to match China’s map. Most models are built at a 1:15 scale, with some at a 1:1 scale, offering visitors an awe-inspiring experience of exploring the country’s historic and natural wonders in one location. Each miniature is carefully recreated to maintain the authenticity and charm of the original sites.

miniature replica of the Great Wall of China at Splendid China Folk Village

28 Ethnic Villages

The park’s 28 ethnic villages, constructed at a 1:1 scale, provide an immersive journey into the unique lifestyles and traditions of China’s diverse ethnic groups. From the Han-style archways and Beijing courtyards to the minority villages of the Miao, Dong, Yao, Wa, Li, and Jingpo peoples, visitors are welcomed with warmth and hospitality. Architectural styles vary significantly among groups like the Bai, Tibetan, Naxi, Korean, and Gaoshan. Photogenic spots include the Buyei stone village, Mosuo wooden houses, Hani “mushroom” huts, Dai bamboo buildings, and Kazakh yurts. Visitors can explore and learn about Mongolian yurts, Tibetan monasteries, and the distinctive buildings of the Yi people, among others.

  • Village Performance Information (Free):
    • “The Hometown of Ashima”: 12:10, 13:20 (Yi Village)
    • “Love Songs at Lusheng Square”: 14:00, 15:50 (Miao Village)
    • “Halong Dance”: 13:20, 16:20 (Li Village)
    • “Children of the Tianshan Mountains”: 09:45, 13:30, 16:30 (Wei Village)
dazzling iron flower performance at Splendid China Folk Village during the night

Live Performances

The live performances at Splendid China Folk Village are a highlight of the visit, showcasing traditional culture, costume art, and breathtaking stunt shows. These performances immerse visitors in the richness of Chinese culture. The most famous shows—“The Legend of the Desert,” “Oriental Elegance,” and “Dragon and Phoenix Dance China”—are particularly popular.

  • Ticket Information: Performances are free on weekdays, but weekend and holiday shows require an additional ticket. “Dragon and Phoenix Dance China” and “Oriental Elegance” require ticket exchanges, while “The Legend of the Desert” does not. Note that “The Legend of the Desert” is not performed on Mondays.
  • Performance Schedule:
    • “The Legend of the Desert”: 15:00 (35 minutes, Beach Equestrian Arena)
    • “New Oriental Elegance”: 17:00 (60 minutes, Impression China Theater)
    • “Dragon and Phoenix Dance China”: 19:00 (60 minutes, Phoenix Plaza)
    • “Red Memories”/”Splendid Blossoms”: 19:00 (Baiyi Plaza)
    • “Saihan Tala”: 17:00 on weekdays; 17:00 and 18:20 on weekends and holidays (Saihan Tala Mongolian Yurt; dining required for admission)
vibrant Oriental Elegance show at Splendid China Folk Village with traditional costumes and dance

Ticket Information for Splendid China Folk Village

Ticket Prices

  • Adults: RMB 220 (Day), RMB 120 (Night)
  • Children: RMB 110 (1.2m–1.5m in height)
  • Students: RMB 150 (Above 1.5m in height, under 18 years old)
  • Seniors: RMB 110 (Aged 65–69)
  • Free Admission: Children under 1.2m and seniors over 70 years old

Where to Buy Tickets

To fully enjoy all the highlights of Splendid China Folk Village in one day, consider following these suggested routes:

  • Splendid China Area Route: This route takes you through iconic miniature landmarks arranged according to their geographic locations in China. Start at Nine-Dragon Wall (Shanxi), then visit Mogao Caves (Gansu), Leshan Giant Buddha (Sichuan), Three Pagodas of Dali (Yunnan), Li River (Guangxi), Yueyang Tower (Hunan), West Lake (Zhejiang), Hanshan Temple (Jiangsu), Mount Tai (Shandong), Chengde Mountain Resort (Hebei), Ming Tombs (Beijing), Forbidden City (Beijing), Mausoleum of Genghis Khan (Inner Mongolia), and end with Potala Palace (Tibet).
  • Ethnic Culture Village Route: Dive into the vibrant culture of China’s ethnic groups. Start at Wei Village, then explore Tibetan Village, watch the Legend of the Desert Performance, and continue to Tea-Horse Road, Wa Palace, Thousand-Hand Guanyin, Mosuo Village, Dong Village, Miao Village, Stone Forest, and Yi Village (don’t miss the 16:20 performance here). Wrap up with Water Village, Dai Village, Hui Street, and the Dragon and Phoenix Dance China Performance at Phoenix Plaza.

Tips: These two routes form a circular path, making navigation seamless. If you have only half a day, pick one route or take the park’s shuttle to save time.

  • Daily Free Performances at Ethnic Villages:
    • Wei Village: “Blossoming Pomegranate Flowers”
    • Li Village: “Halong Dance”
    • Dong Village: “Climbing the Knife Mountain”
    • Wa Village: “The Magic Wa Mountains”
    • Mosuo Village: “Love Song of Lugu Lake”
    • Dai Village: “Blessings from Dai Village”
    • Yi Village: “The Hometown of Ashima”
    • Hani Village: “Hani Misoza”
    • Tibetan Village: “Tashi Delek Show”
  • Two Signature Performances:
    • “Oriental Elegance”: This large-scale ethnic costume dance is a masterpiece that combines traditional clothing, dance, music, and stage design. Winner of the prestigious Lotus Award, it is often called a must-see in Shenzhen.
    • “The Legend of the Desert”: China’s first live-action equestrian stunt show featuring stunning visual effects, thrilling battles, and imaginative storytelling. It’s a spectacular adventure that challenges your imagination. Note: Free on weekdays; RMB 30 on weekends and public holidays.

The folk village offers a wide variety of snacks and local delicacies that cater to all tastes. You’ll find popular options like grilled corn and fried chicken cutlets, as well as regional specialties such as Yunnan’s Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles and Cantonese Dim Sum.

  • Price Reference: A bowl of noodles costs around RMB 30.

Hotel Recommendations Near Splendid China Folk Village

Located in the Nanshan District of Shenzhen, the Splendid China Folk Village is surrounded by many popular attractions. Staying nearby not only lets you explore the Splendid China Folk Village itself but also provides easy access to other popular spots in Shenzhen. We recommend staying near the Window of the World Metro Station in Nanshan District. You can find our recommended hotels around this metro station in “Shenzhen Hotel Recommendations“. Below are a few selected hotels we recommend.

Shenzhen T Hotel (Nanshan Science Park Branch)

Shenzhen T Hotel (Nanshan Science Park Branch)
  • Location: 5-minute walk from Shenzhen University South Subway Station
  • Price Range: CNY 379
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: 4.7 out of 5 on Trip
  • Special Amenities: Fitness center, laundry facilities, robot delivery service.

This apartment hotel is located next to Line 9’s Shenzhen University South Station, making it highly convenient for accessing the city’s hotspots and business centers. Rooms are spacious, clean, and well-equipped. Surprises include foam hand wash instead of soap and complimentary beverages in the minibar. The bathroom features are exceptional.

Hamps Hotel Shenzhen

Hamps Hotel Shenzhen
  • Location: 5-minute walk from Yuehai Gate Subway Station
  • Price Range: CNY 594
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: 4.8 out of 5 on Trip
  • Special Amenities: Fitness center, laundry facilities, robot delivery service.

A mere 5-minute walk from the subway, this hotel is secluded yet surrounded by large shopping centers and municipal parks. It features advanced facilities, including

How to Get to Splendid China Folk Village from Shenzhen City Center

By Metro

Taking the Shenzhen Metro is one of the most convenient ways to reach Splendid China Folk Village. Simply board the Metro Line 1 (Luobao Line) and alight at Huaqiaocheng Station (Exit D). From the station, follow the signs and walk about 5 minutes to reach the park entrance.

  • Operating Hours: 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM
  • This option is ideal for daytime visitors due to its efficiency and reliability.

By Bus

Several bus routes provide direct access to Splendid China Folk Village. Recommended routes include:

  • Bus 101, 105, 123: These routes stop at Splendid China Station or Huaqiaocheng Station, both just steps away from the park entrance.

By Taxi or Ride-Hailing

For a more flexible and comfortable journey, taxis and ride-hailing services are excellent options:

  • From Shenzhen City Center: A ride from areas like Luohu or Futian takes approximately 20–30 minutes and costs around RMB 50.

How to Get to Splendid China Folk Village from Shenzhen Bao’an Airport

Traveling from Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport to Splendid China Folk Village is easy with multiple transport options available:

By Metro

The metro offers an affordable and convenient way to reach the park:

  1. From the airport terminal, take Metro Line 11 (Airport Line) heading toward Futian.
  2. Transfer at Chegongmiao Station to Metro Line 1 (Luobao Line) toward Luohu.
  3. Alight at Huaqiaocheng Station (Exit D) and walk 5 minutes to the park entrance.
  • Total Travel Time: Approximately 50 minutes
  • Cost: Around RMB 10

By Airport Shuttle Bus

Shenzhen Airport operates several shuttle bus routes, with Route 330 being a convenient option:

  • Route 330: From the airport to downtown Shenzhen. Disembark in Nanshan or a nearby area, then transfer to Metro Line 1 to reach Huaqiaocheng Station.
  • Travel Time: Around 60 minutes (depending on traffic)
  • Cost: RMB 20–30

By Taxi or Ride-Hailing

For a direct and comfortable ride, taxis or ride-hailing apps are ideal:

  • Journey Time: Approximately 40 minutes
  • Cost: RMB 100–120 (depending on traffic conditions)

FAQ

Is Splendid China Folk Village suitable for strollers and wheelchairs?

Yes, the park is stroller and wheelchair-friendly. Its main paths are wide and flat, and accessible ramps are available throughout the area. Additionally, performance venues and viewing platforms are equipped with accessibility features, ensuring all visitors have a comfortable experience.

Is there luggage storage available?

Yes, luggage storage lockers are available at the park entrance.

  • Cost: RMB 15 per day for a large locker
  • Capacity: Suitable for luggage up to 29 inches

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