SUMMER is often associated with beaches and water sports. With the arrival of the first solar term of summer on May 5, many Shenzhen residents are planning their weekend escapes at the city’s eastern beaches.

Recently, Shenzhen Eastern Bus Group launched two new bus routes serving Xichong Beach and Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory.

Xichong Beach line

Terminal: Dark Night Planetarium transfer station

Stops: Entrances to beaches No. 1, 2, 3 and 4 within the Xichong scenic area

Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Fare: Flat rate of 5 yuan (US$0.7) per single trip (No discount for Shenzhentong users)

Dubbed as the “Eastern Hawaii,” Xichong Beach is Shenzhen’s longest beach and a popular seaside vacation destination. It features four entrances, among which No. 1 and No. 3 are ideal for swimming, No. 2 offers expansive views perfect for photography and outdoor water activities, while No. 4 is suited for surfing. The 5.18-kilometer bus route connects all four beaches, providing convenient access.

Astronomical observatory line

Stops: Dark Night Planetarium transfer station, Danshuichong Greenway and observatory transfer station

Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Fare: Flat rate of 5 yuan per single trip (No discount for shenzhentong users)

Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory is a comprehensive facility integrating astronomical, meteorological, and marine observation, along with academic research and popular science education. There are hiking trails nearby, which connect visitors to the Chuanbi Rock, a coastal rock formation located downhill by the sea.

The two bus routes have been carefully designed to improve public transporation access in the eastern Shenzhen area. Their launch addresses the previous lack of direct bus service to Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory, and provides seamless connections to the six major attractions in the Xichong scenic area.

Tourists can take Bus M232 to the Xichong No. 2 Beach stop and transfer to either shuttle line. The new routes allow visitors easy access to the beautiful beaches, and stunning mountain-sea landscapes.(Claudia Wei)