HKIA by bus to Shenzhen Luohu or Futian

Question

We are a couple travelling to HK and adding on a short trip to Shenzhen on arrival. I considered the ferry to Shekou but that seems quite far from the downtown area. The high-speed rail is an alternative but requires a MTR transfer or long walk. Read that there are intercity buses or coach service but can't seem to find any useful information on schedules and routes. Would also welcome advice on whether to stay in Futian or Luohu for a couple of nights as tourists. Thanks!

Answer

Traveling from Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) to Shenzhen is quite convenient, and there are several options depending on your preference for speed, convenience, and cost. Since you are considering a short stay in Shenzhen, here’s a detailed overview:

Bus/Coach Options:

Direct Airport Buses to Shenzhen: There are several cross-border bus services from HKIA that go directly to major Shenzhen areas including Luohu and Futian. The buses depart from the ground transportation center at HKIA (usually outside the arrivals area, follow signs for cross-border buses). Travel time is approximately 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic and border crossing times.
Popular Routes:
- HKIA → Shenzhen Futian: Good for access to shopping malls, central business district, and high-speed rail station.
- HKIA → Shenzhen Luohu: Ideal if your focus is on markets, local dining, and easier access to the MTR network towards other Shenzhen districts.
Schedule and Tickets: Buses generally operate every 30–60 minutes from early morning until late evening. Tickets can be purchased at the counter or sometimes online via travel apps. Expect to pay around 65–80 HKD per person.
Border Procedures: You will need your passport and possibly a Shenzhen visa or Hong Kong entry stamp. The bus usually drops you at the Shenzhen side of the border where you complete immigration formalities.

Other Options:

Ferry to Shekou: Faster on water but further from central Shenzhen. Requires additional taxi or metro rides to get to downtown Shenzhen.
High-Speed Rail: From Hong Kong West Kowloon to Shenzhen Futian. Quick (around 15 minutes), but involves MTR or taxi to West Kowloon station and ticket purchase. Very convenient if you are staying near Futian.
MTR + Border Crossing: Take the Airport Express to Hong Kong station and transfer via MTR to Lo Wu (for Luohu) or Futian checkpoints. This is slower with luggage but cheaper than direct bus.

Where to Stay in Shenzhen:

Futian: Modern city center, close to high-speed rail, shopping malls, and international hotels. Convenient for a short stay and easy access to transport.
Luohu: More traditional, with lively markets and dining options. Good if you want a more local experience and direct access to Hong Kong via Lo Wu border.

Overall, for a couple of nights as tourists, Futian is generally more convenient for transport and modern amenities, while Luohu offers a more local vibe. Direct buses from HKIA to either area are easy and save the hassle of multiple transfers.

HKIA by bus to Shenzhen Luohu or Futian

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