How to Get to Shenzhen from Hong Kong
Shenzhen, Hong Kong’s dynamic neighbor, is just 37 km away and easily accessible via train, bus, ferry, or private car. With multiple cross-border checkpoints and fast, frequent transport services, you can reach Shenzhen in as little as 14 minutes!
Whether you're traveling for business, shopping, or sightseeing, here’s a complete guide to the fastest and most convenient ways to get to Shenzhen from Hong Kong under an hour.
1. By High-Speed Train: The Fastest & Most Convenient Option
The high-speed train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Station offers the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Shenzhen.
Routes & Travel Time:
Futian Station – 14 minutes
Shenzhenbei (Shenzhen North) Station – 18 minutes
Frequency: Trains depart every five minutes
Cost:
Second-class: HK$75-85
First-class: HK$119-131 (includes personal reading light and audio output)
Operating Hours: First train at 7:03 AM, last train at 10:35 PM
Booking: Available via online Trip.com or in person at the station
This is the best option for those who prioritize speed and comfort with direct access to Shenzhen’s business districts.
2. By MTR: A Budget-Friendly Alternative
The MTR East Rail Line provides a cost-effective and direct way to reach Shenzhen’s border checkpoints.
Routes & Travel Time:
Lo Wu Station → Lo Wu Checkpoint – approximately 40 minutes from Central Hong Kong
Lok Ma Chau Station → Futian Checkpoint – approximately 45 minutes
Checkpoint Operating Hours:
Lo Wu: 6:30 AM – Midnight
Lok Ma Chau: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM
This is a good option for budget-conscious travelers who do not mind transferring at the border.
3. By Ferry: Ideal for Airport Arrivals
Travelers arriving at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) can take a ferry to Shenzhen, bypassing immigration in Hong Kong.
Routes & Travel Time:
SkyPier to Shekou Port – 30 minutes (runs every one to two hours)
SkyPier to Shenzhen Airport Ferry Terminal – 50 minutes (four ferries daily)
Booking:
If flying with Cathay Pacific, travelers can book a Direct Air+Sea ticket with Shenzhen Shekou Cruise Home Port (ZYK) or Shenzhen Airport Ferry Terminal (FYG) as the final destination.
Upon arrival at HKIA, ferry tickets can be collected at Transfer Area E2.
This option is ideal for travelers landing at HKIA who want a seamless transfer to Shenzhen.
4. By Cross-Border Coach or Bus: A Direct & Affordable Option
Several cross-border coach services operate from key locations in Hong Kong to major Shenzhen checkpoints.
Routes & Travel Time:
Hong Kong to Shenzhen Bay, Huanggang, Sha Tau Kok – approximately one hour
Night buses to Lok Ma Chau and Huanggang (both have 24-hour border crossings)
Pick-Up Points:
Mong Kok
Wan Chai
Tsuen Wan
Kwun Tong
Tin Shui Wai
Cost: Typically under HK$100
This option is best for budget travelers and those traveling late at night.
5. By Private Car or Limo: The Most Comfortable Choice
For a door-to-door travel experience, private cross-border car services are available.
Private Hire Services:
SkyLimo – English-speaking chauffeurs and direct transfers
Kwoon Chung Bus Holdings – Direct routes to Shenzhen Bao’an Airport, Lo Wu, Shenzhen Bay, and Huanggang
Self-Driving Option:
Since 2023, Hong Kong residents can drive across the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge if they:
Own a non-commercial private car with the correct permits
Stay in mainland China for up to 30 consecutive days
This is the best option for business travelers, families, or those who want a premium and flexible travel experience.
Which Travel Option is Best for You?
High-Speed Train: 14-18 minutes – Ideal for fast and comfortable travel
MTR (East Rail Line): Approximately 40 minutes – Best for budget-conscious travelers
Ferry from HKIA: 30-50 minutes – Convenient for airport arrivals
Bus / Coach: 1 hour+ – Affordable option, great for late-night travel
Private Car / Limo: 45-60 minutes – Perfect for luxury and hassle-free transfers
With multiple fast and affordable transport options, traveling from Hong Kong to Shenzhen is simple and efficient. Whether you are looking for the fastest route or the most cost-effective option, there is a travel method to suit your needs.
