Shenzhen

Shenzhen is a young, hyper-modern metropolis in Guangdong province that grew from a fishing region into China's leading technology and innovation hub in just a few decades. With a metropolitan population of around 17 million, it borders Hong Kong and is one of the country's wealthiest and most future-oriented cities. The climate is humid subtropical, with long, hot, humid summers and short, mild winters. Because it is so new, its attractions lean modern, from Window of the World and the OCT-LOFT arts district to Dameisha Beach and the towering Ping An Finance Center. As a migrant city its food scene spans all of China, though Cantonese dim sum and fresh seafood are staples. A vast, efficient metro system, Bao'an International Airport, and high-speed rail connect it to Guangzhou and Hong Kong within the hour. For an international student, Shenzhen offers a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment, cutting-edge universities, and a warm climate, though living costs are high.