Thousands of international visitors are heading to Shenzhen for APEC 2026. But as a thriving commercial hub, the city welcomes travelers year-round. These tips will come in handy whenever you visit.
It may be your first time in China, or years since your last visit, and you probably have a few questions.
How do I get into the city? How do I pay? What if I don’t speak the language?
The good news is that a little preparation can make your stay in Shenzhen much easier. With a few things set up before you fly, you’ll be ready to explore from the moment you arrive.
1. Get set up before you go
A few minutes of preparation at home can save you time and hassle when you arrive.
Start by downloading WeChat. It’s an app you can use to stay connected, communicate, make payments, get around and access local services.
Next, set up Weixin Pay, the payment service within WeChat, by linking your international bank card. If you already use an overseas e-wallet, check whether it’s among the more than 60 supported through TenPay Global.
For a short visit, you can also consider TenPayGo, a payment app designed for international visitors, with travel services built in.
And download Hy Translate from Google Play or Apple’s App Store. With support for 33 languages, it can help you communicate when you need a little assistance.
2. Find your way when you arrive
Stepping off the plane or crossing the border into a new city, you might not know where to go first.
Look for visitor information points at Shenzhen airport and border crossings. They can help you find the services and information you need to get started.
You can also look for visitor information and QR codes at participating hotels around the city.
3. Find rides, sights and meals in one place
First, a ride into the city. Then the metro. Later, perhaps a good place for dinner or somewhere to explore on a free afternoon.
Explore China, available through WeChat, can help with all of these. It’s a multilingual portal that brings together useful Mini Programs and information on transportation, dining, local attractions and everyday services.
It also includes healthcare information, so if you’re feeling under the weather or need medical assistance, it’s a useful place to start.
4. Pay like a local
Whether you’re grabbing a morning coffee, shopping or sitting down for dinner, mobile payments are part of everyday life in Shenzhen.
Look for the Weixin Pay logo at shops and restaurants. If you’ve linked an eligible international bank card to WeChat, you can use Weixin Pay at participating merchants without needing to carry much cash.
If you’re using a supported overseas e-wallet or TenPayGo, check where your preferred payment option is accepted.
5. Let your phone help with the talking
Asking for directions. Ordering food at a restaurant. Checking into a hotel. These are the moments when a little translation goes a long way.
That’s where Hy Translate comes in. During APEC 2026, volunteers and frontline staff will be using the app to assist international visitors with everyday conversations and questions.
You can also use it on your own phone, whether you’re trying to explain where you want to go or simply chatting with someone you’ve just met.
Welcome to Shenzhen
A new city always comes with a few unfamiliar moments. But with the right tools at your fingertips, getting around, making payments and connecting with people can be a little easier.
Tencent was founded in Shenzhen nearly three decades ago, and we’ve watched our home city grow into a place that welcomes people from around the world. We hope these tips help you feel a little more at home here, too.
