Zhaoshang Subdistrict

Guide to Visiting Sea World Shenzhen

Date: 25/07/2024

Introduction

Sea World in Shenzhen, China, is a multi-faceted destination that seamlessly blends history, culture, entertainment, and leisure. Nestled in the Shekou area of Nanshan District, this iconic site is centered around the Minghua ship, a former French luxury liner that has been transformed into a floating hotel and entertainment complex. Since its establishment in the early 1980s, Sea World has evolved into a crucial cultural and economic hub, drawing both local and international visitors (nowshenzhen.com).

The significance of Sea World extends beyond its historical roots. This landmark played a pivotal role in Shenzhen’s economic transformation, particularly when Shekou was designated as a Free Trade Zone in 1979, catalyzing China’s modernization and economic growth. A comprehensive renovation in 2003 further elevated Sea World’s status as an international entertainment hub, featuring a wide array of shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks (driveontheleft.com).

Visitors to Sea World can explore a variety of attractions, including the Maritime Museum, the Polar Museum, and the Ocean Theater. The area is also a vibrant cultural center, hosting a range of art exhibitions and events that spotlight its role in fostering international cultural exchange. Accessible via the Shenzhen Metro and close to the Shekou Ferry Terminal, Sea World is a convenient and must-visit destination for anyone in Shenzhen (wikipedia.org).

This guide aims to provide you with all the necessary information to make the most of your visit to Sea World, Shenzhen. From historical insights and visitor tips to detailed descriptions of attractions and activities, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.

History and Significance
Visitor Information
- Tickets and Hours
- Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Attractions and Activities
Special Events and Guided Tours
Dining Options
Shopping
Entertainment and Nightlife
Accommodation
Safety and Security
Language and Communication
Currency and Payments
Accessibility
Local Etiquette
Emergency Contacts
Useful Apps
FAQ

History and Significance of Sea World, Shenzhen

Origins and Development

Sea World in Shekou, Shenzhen, is a prominent landmark with a rich history that dates back to the early 1980s. The centerpiece of Sea World is the Minghua ship, originally a French luxury liner named ANCEEVILLA, built in 1962. In 1973, China purchased the ship and renamed it Minghua. By 1983, the ship had arrived in Shekou and was transformed into a hotel and sea-based tourist center. The following year, Deng Xiaoping, a key figure in China’s economic reforms, visited the ship and inscribed the name “Sea World,” marking the beginning of its journey as a significant cultural and entertainment hub (nowshenzhen.com).

Economic and Cultural Impact

Sea World played a crucial role in the economic transformation of Shenzhen. In 1979, Shekou was designated as a Free Trade Zone, allowing foreign oil companies to establish operations. This initiative was part of China’s broader strategy to open up its economy to global markets. The success of this experiment in Shekou laid the groundwork for China’s rapid economic growth and modernization over the next few decades (driveontheleft.com).

Renovation and Modernization

In 2003, Sea World Plaza was inaugurated as Shenzhen’s first international entertainment hub. A decade later, the plaza underwent a comprehensive renovation, reopening with a total commercial area of 67,000 square meters. The new Sea World Plaza comprises three main sections: the Minghua ship, Central Plaza, and ABC zones. This renovation aimed to enhance the area’s international, fashionable, and leisurely appeal, restoring its former glory (nowshenzhen.com).

Architectural and Cultural Landmarks

The Minghua ship remains a central attraction in Sea World, symbolizing the area’s historical and cultural significance. The ship is surrounded by numerous shops, restaurants, and the Sea World Culture and Arts Center. Notable landmarks include the statue of Nuwa and the nightly water fountain show, which features synchronized music, lights, and fire effects. This show, funded by Water Design Co Ltd., represents a significant investment of over 30 million RMB (wikipedia.org).

Cultural Events and Exhibitions

Sea World is a vibrant cultural hub, hosting various art exhibitions and cultural events. For instance, the Sea World Culture & Arts Center frequently showcases international and local art, including the Shenzhen Art Book Fair and exhibitions celebrating Sino-French diplomatic relations. These events highlight the area’s role in fostering cultural exchange and artistic expression (thatsmags.com).

Transportation and Accessibility

Sea World is easily accessible via the Shenzhen Metro, with the Sea World station on Line 2 serving the area since 2010. The addition of Line 12 in 2022 further improved connectivity. The proximity to the Shekou Ferry Terminal, offering ferries to Hong Kong, Hong Kong Airport, and Macau, as well as overland access to Hong Kong via Shenzhen Bay, makes Sea World a convenient destination for both local and international visitors (wikipedia.org).

Expatriate Community and Lifestyle

Sea World is a popular destination for expatriates in Shenzhen, partly due to its Westernized atmosphere and the presence of international schools like SIS and QSI. The area boasts a wide range of Western restaurants, bars, and cafes, catering to the diverse tastes of its residents and visitors. The main pedestrian plaza frequently hosts public events, from music shows to promotional activities, making it a lively and dynamic part of the city (driveontheleft.com).

Recreational and Leisure Activities

Visitors to Sea World can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including waterfront walks, boat rides, and amusement rides. The area also features a night market, theme park, and shopping center, offering a diverse range of entertainment options. The nearby beaches and scenic views of Hong Kong from the promenade add to the appeal of Sea World as a leisure destination (gems.travel).

Visitor Information

Tickets and Hours

Sea World is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Tickets for various attractions can be purchased on-site or online through the official Sea World, Shenzhen website. Prices vary depending on the attraction, with special discounts available for children, seniors, and groups.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

When visiting Sea World, consider allocating at least half a day to fully explore its attractions. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring a camera to capture the scenic views. Nearby attractions include Shekou Fisherman’s Wharf, Shenzhen Bay Park, and the Nanshan Mountain, all offering unique experiences and beautiful landscapes.

Attractions and Activities

The Fish Aquarium

The Fish Aquarium at Shenzhen Xiaomeisha Sea World is a must-visit for marine life enthusiasts. Spanning 20 tanks, it houses 6,000 individual rare fish from 500 different species. Visitors can witness underwater mermaid performances, underwater wedding ceremonies, and diving shows, which are particularly popular among families with young children. The aquarium’s tunnel, with its large glass panels, offers a mesmerizing view, giving visitors the illusion of being under the sea (echinacities.com).

Polar Museum

The Polar Museum, covering 10,000 square meters, is another significant attraction. It features a white whale museum, a polar bear home, penguin exhibits, walruses, arctic foxes, and showcases of arctic landscapes. The enclosures are meticulously designed to recreate the animals’ natural habitats, with strict standards for air and water temperatures and humidity. This ensures the well-being of the animals while providing an educational experience for visitors (echinacities.com).

Magic Tour Aquarium

The Magic Tour Aquarium is the largest indoor rail-based exhibition space in China. This attraction takes visitors on a 15-minute journey through the history and future of the oceans. The ride features scenes from marine-related stories such as Robinson Crusoe and The Fisherman and Goldfish, blending education with entertainment (echinacities.com).

Whale Shark Museum

Dedicated entirely to the whale shark, the Whale Shark Museum is home to an 8.34-meter-long, three-ton whale shark, the largest discovered in China to date. The museum also displays hundreds of rare fish specimens, providing a comprehensive look at this magnificent species (echinacities.com).

Shark Museum

The Shark Museum is China’s largest shark museum, featuring eight different kinds of sharks, including bull, lemon, leopard, and nurse sharks. The museum aims to educate visitors about these often misunderstood creatures. Daily underwater performances involving man and shark add an element of excitement and thrill to the visit (echinacities.com).

Seashell Museum

The Seashell Museum showcases a staggering variety of seashells and crustaceans, with 600 different specimens on display. This museum offers a detailed look at the diversity of marine life, highlighting the beauty and complexity of seashells and their ecological significance (echinacities.com).

Ocean Park

Ocean Park provides a range of water activities, from wave pools to massive water slides. This area is perfect for visitors looking to relax and enjoy some fun in the water after exploring the educational exhibits. It caters to all ages, making it a popular spot for families (echinacities.com).

Ocean Theater

The Ocean Theater, with a seating capacity of 3,000, hosts a variety of one-hour live shows featuring dolphins, sea lions, and seals. These performances are designed to entertain and educate, showcasing the intelligence and agility of these marine animals (echinacities.com).

Special Events and Guided Tours

Sea World Shenzhen hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including seasonal festivals and marine-themed activities. Guided tours are available, offering in-depth insights into the exhibits and marine conservation efforts. Check the official website for the latest event schedule and tour bookings.

Dining Options

Sea World offers a diverse range of dining options, from local Chinese cuisine to international fare. Some popular restaurants include:

Baia Burger Concept - Known for its gourmet burgers and craft beers.
Tequila Coyote’s Mexican Food & Grill - Offers authentic Mexican dishes and a lively atmosphere.
The Terrace - A popular spot for Thai food and live music (driveontheleft.com).

Shopping

Sea World is home to several boutique shops and international brands. Visitors can find everything from fashion and accessories to souvenirs and local crafts. The shopping area is open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Sea World is renowned for its vibrant nightlife. The area comes alive after dark with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. Some popular spots include:

X-Ta-Sea Sports Bar & Restaurant - A great place to catch live sports and enjoy a drink.
McCawley’s Irish Pub - Offers a wide selection of beers and a lively atmosphere.
The Brew - Known for its craft beers and live music performances (driveontheleft.com).

Accommodation

For those looking to stay overnight, Sea World offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some recommended hotels include:

Hilton Shenzhen Shekou Nanhai - A luxury hotel with stunning views of the sea and excellent amenities.
Minghua Ship Hotel - Offers a unique experience of staying on a historic ship.
Ascott Maillen Shenzhen - Provides serviced apartments with modern facilities (driveontheleft.com).

Safety and Security

Sea World is generally a safe area, but it’s always wise to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and be cautious when using ATMs. The local police station is nearby, and there are security personnel patrolling the area.

Language and Communication

While Mandarin is the official language, many people in Sea World speak English, especially in restaurants, hotels, and tourist attractions. It’s helpful to have a translation app or a phrasebook for basic communication.

Currency and Payments

The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (¥). Most establishments accept major credit cards, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases. ATMs are widely available in the area.

Accessibility

Sea World is generally accessible for visitors with disabilities. The area has well-maintained pathways, ramps, and elevators. However, it’s recommended to check with individual attractions and restaurants for specific accessibility features.

Local Etiquette

When visiting Sea World, it’s important to respect local customs and etiquette. Here are a few tips:

Dress Modestly - While casual attire is acceptable, avoid wearing overly revealing clothing.
Tipping - Tipping is not customary in China, but it’s appreciated for exceptional service.
Smoking - Smoking is prohibited in most public areas. Look for designated smoking zones.

Emergency Contacts

In case of emergencies, here are some important contact numbers:

Police - 110
Fire Department - 119
Ambulance - 120

Useful Apps

Consider downloading these apps to enhance your visit:

Didi Chuxing - For ride-hailing services.
WeChat - For communication and mobile payments.
Google Maps - For navigation and finding nearby attractions.

FAQ

Q: What are the visiting hours for Sea World Shenzhen?

A: Sea World is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Q: How much do tickets cost for Sea World attractions?

A: Ticket prices vary depending on the attraction. Special discounts are available for children, seniors, and groups.

Q: How do I get to Sea World, Shenzhen?

A: Sea World is accessible via the Shenzhen Metro, with the Sea World station on Line 2. It is also near the Shekou Ferry Terminal, which offers ferries to Hong Kong, Hong Kong Airport, and Macau.

Q: Are there any nearby attractions to Sea World?

A: Yes, nearby attractions include Shekou Fisherman’s Wharf, Shenzhen Bay Park, and Nanshan Mountain.

Conclusion

Sea World in Shekou, Shenzhen, stands as a testament to the city’s rich historical tapestry and rapid economic development. From its origins as a French luxury liner to its current status as a bustling entertainment and cultural hub, Sea World offers something for everyone. The extensive range of attractions, including the Maritime Museum, Polar Museum, and Ocean Theater, ensures that visitors are both educated and entertained. The area’s vibrant dining, shopping, and nightlife scenes further enhance its appeal, making it a popular destination for expatriates and locals alike (echinacities.com).

Accessibility and convenience are key highlights, with excellent transportation links via the Shenzhen Metro and the Shekou Ferry Terminal. The area’s commitment to cultural exchange is evident through its frequent art exhibitions and events, making it a dynamic and evolving destination. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a marine life lover, or simply looking for a fun day out, Sea World Shenzhen promises a memorable experience (gems.travel).

Plan your visit to Sea World Shenzhen today and immerse yourself in a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment. For more information, ticket bookings, and updates on upcoming events, visit the official Sea World Shenzhen website and follow them on social media.