Hong Kong to Shenzhen Day Trip: Crossing, Time, Payment

Key Steps for a Smooth Day Trip

To make your day trip from Hong Kong to Shenzhen successful, you need to complete three essential tasks before leaving: confirm your entry eligibility, fill out the online arrival card, and set up payment and map apps on your phone. The border crossings have specific closing times, and you cannot use cash or foreign currency at the metro gates. Google Maps does not work in China.

Choose your border crossing based on your destination:

• For Huaqiang North (华强北) and Futian CBD, use Lok Ma Chau Spur Line (福田口岸).
• For Luohu Commercial City and the old town, use Lo Wu (罗湖口岸).

Connecting to Shenzhen Metro

After crossing the border, you can connect to the Shenzhen Metro as follows:

• Lo Wu (罗湖) connects to Luohu Station (罗湖站, Line 1)
• Lok Ma Chau Spur Line (福田口岸) connects to Futian Checkpoint Station (福田口岸站, Line 4)
• Huaqiang North (华强北) is served by Huaqiang North Station (华强北, Lines 2 and 7), not to be confused with Huaqiang Road Station (华强路, Line 1)

Use Amap Global (iOS: Download Amap Global, Android: Search for AMap Global on Google Play) to find the most accurate routes. Typically, one transfer and 20-30 minutes of travel time are required.

Filling Out the Arrival Card

Starting from November 20, 2025, foreigners can fill out the arrival card online via the National Immigration Administration's platform. You can fill it out up to 3 days before your arrival. If you haven't filled it out, you can scan a QR code at the border or fill out a paper card.

Be cautious of phishing websites. Only use the official National Immigration Administration's website. Do not pay any fees for filling out the form.

For more information, see the National Immigration Administration's official guidance.

Important Tips Before Returning

Before returning, keep these two things in mind:

• Power banks: As of June 28, 2025, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) prohibits carrying power banks without clear 3C certification or those recalled. Ensure your power bank has a 3C mark. For more details, see CAAC's official announcement.
• Tax refunds: You can apply for a tax refund if you spend over 200 RMB at a designated tax refund store on the same day. However, regular market stalls are not tax refund stores. For more information, see the Chinese government's official news.

Additional Entry Path: Group Tour Visa-Free Policy

If you are already in Hong Kong or Macau, you can enter Guangdong Province visa-free as part of a tour group. This policy applies to citizens of countries with diplomatic relations with China. You must join a tour group organized by a registered travel agency in Hong Kong or Macau (minimum 2 people) and enter and exit as a group. You can stay for up to 6 days in the 10 cities of the Greater Bay Area (Guangzhou, Foshan, Zhaoqing, Shenzhen, Dongguan, Huizhou, Zhuhai, Zhongshan, Jiangmen, Shantou).

For more details, see the National Immigration Administration's official policy.

Remember:

• This policy requires joining a registered tour group and entering and exiting as a group.
• It is only for those already in Hong Kong or Macau, not for direct flights from other countries.
• You must stay within the 10 specified cities and exit within 6 days.

What it looks like

Frequently asked

What is the best border crossing for a day trip to Huaqiang North?

Use the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line (福田口岸) for the shortest travel time.

Can I use my foreign credit card to pay for the Shenzhen Metro?

Yes, some stations have smart POS machines that accept Visa, Mastercard, Amex, and JCB for single-ride tickets. Check the current options at the station.

How do I fill out the arrival card online?

Go to the National Immigration Administration's official website and fill out the form up to 3 days before your arrival. Do not pay any fees for this service.

What should I do if I miss the closing time of the border crossing?

If you miss the closing time, you may need to use the 24-hour Lok Ma Chau crossing or stay overnight. Always check the official times and plan accordingly.

How do I set up WeChat and Alipay before my trip?

Download the apps from their official sites, add your foreign card, and upload your passport for verification. Follow the step-by-step guides provided by China Survival Kit and China Navigators.