James Baquet

    ON a recent Tuesday afternoon, I had the pleasure of setting foot in the Children’s Palace (Shaonian Gong) for the first time.

    It was a slow day, and many of the exhibitions and theaters were closed. For example, the “4D Dynamic Theater” on the fourth floor only operates Thursdays and Fridays (once in the morning and twice in the afternoon) and weekends (twice in the morning and four times in the afternoon).

    Still, there was plenty to see. I especially enjoyed the interactive Science Exhibition Hall, and the quaint ride-through “Energy’s World,” showing the development of energy from the discovery of fire through the space age, via dioramas with narration (Chinese only).

    Other areas in the palace include an “Air Garden,” “Beautiful Homeland,” life-science exhibits, “Wonders in the Sea,” “Flying to Space,” an art gallery, music halls, and several theaters, including the Space Theater (Planetarium) and the Children’s Theater.

    Most of the exhibition halls are free; but the theaters usually require a modestly priced tickets. For example, the 4D theater charges 30 yuan for adults, 15 yuan for students.

    The venue includes a snack bar, and there are numerous classes available in the education division.

    The Children’s Palace is located across from Shenzhen Book City CBD store at Children’s Palace Station on Longgang Line (Line 3) or Longhua Line (Line 4). Open Tuesday through Sunday, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 2-6 p.m. Closed Mondays.