International travel to China is gaining momentum, with nearly 23 million inbound foreign travellers recorded in the first half of 2026, up 20% year on year (YoY). Against this backdrop, Shenzhen is emerging as a destination where technology, culture and everyday experiences come together.
According to Trip.com Group data, international flight bookings to Shenzhen increased by over 70% YoY in Q1 2026, pointing to growing international interest in the city. Known for its technology-driven economy and modern cityscape, Shenzhen offers visitors opportunities to experience innovation through its architecture, culture and urban life.
Building on the city's growing international appeal, Trip.com Group Co-founder and Chairman Mr James Liang announced the launch of the Splendid China Tech Carnival during a visit to Splendid China Folk Culture Villages in Shenzhen on 13 September. The new cultural tourism initiative brings together technology and immersive Chinese cultural experiences.
Bringing Technology and Chinese Culture Together
Running for roughly two months from late December 2026 through the 2027 Lantern Festival, the carnival will span Christmas, New Year's Day and Spring Festival. It will feature drone performances, robot shows and interactive activities, alongside AI-powered cultural programmes, intangible cultural heritage, folk traditions and Spring Festival customs.
The carnival is also inviting public contributions through a global call for submissions across three categories — drones, robotics and cultural experiences — as well as proposals for Chinese cultural activities designed specifically for international visitors. Submissions close on 31 October 2026, with selected concepts to be implemented at the carnival.
By bringing emerging technology together with Chinese cultural traditions, the carnival aims to create an experience that connects innovation with the cultural character of Shenzhen.
Discovering Shenzhen Through Innovation and Everyday Life
The carnival offers a glimpse into Shenzhen's technology-driven identity, but the city has much more to offer international visitors.
The Shenzhen Science and Technology Museum provides an introduction to the city's spirit of innovation through immersive exhibitions, including a Galaxy Tunnel, a Mars-themed area, a holographic corridor and hands-on science experiences.
Across the city, modern architecture and public spaces offer another perspective. DJI Sky City, home to drone technology company DJI, features a 90-metre elevated walkway and distinctive exposed steel structure. Tencent's Binhai Headquarters, meanwhile, forms part of Shenzhen's striking modern skyline, with interconnected buildings and sky bridges.
Technology is also woven into everyday urban life. At Gangxia North Station, the Shenzhen Eye turns an underground transport hub into an architectural landmark, while the Shenzhen SkyShuttle offers visitors a glimpse of autonomous urban mobility.
Beyond technology-focused attractions, Shenzhen's waterfront and cultural spaces provide a different side of the city. Shenzhen Talent Park combines skyline views with a firsthand look at the city's evolving urban services, including drone delivery. Around the city, waterfront promenades, public parks and cultural venues offer opportunities to experience Shenzhen at a more relaxed pace, balancing its futuristic character with everyday city life.
At selected technology and retail spaces, visitors can also interact with robotic devices, AI-powered products, exoskeleton robots and holographic installations, bringing emerging technologies into more accessible, hands-on experiences.
Together, these experiences show how innovation is not confined to dedicated technology venues, but forms part of the way Shenzhen is designed, connected and experienced.
A Growing Gateway for Inbound Travel to China
Shenzhen's growing international appeal comes as more travellers are discovering China through a wider range of destinations and experiences. In Q2 2026, inbound travel revenue grew at a high double-digit rate YoY, reflecting continued growth in international travel to China.
To turn this growing interest into new travel experiences, Trip.com Group has developed initiatives that connect international visitors with Chinese culture, food and destinations.
Launched in August 2025, Taste of China is a 90-minute dining show featuring seven signature dishes from seven major regions of China, including the Greater Bay Area. Each course doubles as a destination guide, with QR codes linking diners to curated travel information about the region behind the dish.
In Shenzhen, Shenzhen Express, a free half-day city tour for international passengers, gives travellers on short layovers an opportunity to discover the city beyond the airport. To date, the tour has attracted participants from 40 countries across six continents, with top markets including Spain, Singapore, Germany, Malaysia and Indonesia.
As international travellers look for journeys that bring together culture, innovation and everyday life, Shenzhen offers a distinctive setting to experience all three. Through the Splendid China Tech Carnival, Trip.com Group is creating another entry point for international visitors to discover Chinese culture alongside the technology and urban creativity that have shaped Shenzhen.
