THE 21st China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) takes place from Thursday to Monday, with its main venue at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center’s Halls 9 to 16 in Bao’an District, along with 52 subvenues across the city.

Spanning 160,000 square meters, the main venue promises limitless surprises at this grand gathering of the world’s cultural sector, featuring more than 6,000 exhibitors.

Hall highlights

Halls 9 & 11: Cultural Industries Hall

These two halls showcase premium cultural products and projects from across China, featuring leading regional enterprises and achievements that highlight the country’s rich cultural diversity.

Hall 10: International Cultural Trade Hall

This hall hosts a global cultural bazaar with international pavilions, top-tier brands, and cross-border trade zones, alongside livestreaming and global youth incubation areas. Enjoy a variety of international delicacies to satisfy your cravings.

Hall 12: Intangible Cultural Heritage · Arts and Crafts Hall

Take a journey through time by exploring revitalized ancient crafts, century-old brands, and rural cultural heritage presented with a contemporary twist. This hall offers countless opportunities to capture stunning cultural heritage products and performances.

Hall 13: GBA Cultural Innovation Hall

Highlighting the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area’s collaborative cultural projects, this hall also focuses on tech-driven creativity and brands from the region.

Hall 14: Film · Copyright · Gaming · E-sports Hall

Where technology meets content — explore AI, the metaverse, esports, and other innovations redefining media, publishing, and entertainment.

Hall 15: Cultural Consumption and Tourism Hall

Experience immersive travel offerings — from heritage sites to digital tourism — showcasing popular destinations and trends.

Hall 16: Art and Design · Fashion Living · Cultural Tech and Finance Hall

This hall presents a fusion of high-end art, lifestyle design, and a tech-finance hub bridging creativity with investment.

Fair information

Dates: May 22-26

Opening hours: 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. (May 22-25); noon to 6 p.m. (May 26) for all visitors; 10 a.m.-noon (May 26) for professional visitors only

Tickets: 60 yuan per adult; 102 yuan for two-person ticket; 145 yuan for three-person ticket; free for children under 12, seniors (60+), soldiers, and people with disabilities

Ticketing: Available via the WeChat miniprogram “文博会+” or at www.cnicif.com (For inquiries, ask “文小博,” the fair’s AI assistant, accessible through both the website and miniprogram.)

Getting there

Venue: Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, 1 Zhancheng Road, Bao’an District (宝安区展城路1号深圳国际会展中心)

Metro: Line 12 or 20 to Shenzhen World Station (国展站) for Halls 9-12 and South Lobby; Shenzhen World North Station (国展北站) for Halls 13-16 and North Lobby

Driving: Use the navigation keyword “深圳国际会展中心.” Note that vehicles with non-Shenzhen license plates are restricted during weekday morning and evening peak hours. Drivers can apply for exemption passes via the Shenzhen Traffic Police official WeChat account (ID: szjjwx).

Parking: Exhibitors and visitors are advised to park in underground Levels 1-2, zones C, D, E, F, and G.

Shuttle buses: Frequent shuttle buses run between the exhibition center and Metro Line 11’s Tangwei Station (塘尾站), the airport, shopping centers, hotels, and other Metro and bus stations.

Dining

The exhibition center offers a diverse selection of dining options, including Chinese, Western, halal cuisines, and fast food, available throughout the venue.

Exhibition halls: Takeaway stalls are located on the second floor; restaurants on the third floor.

Lobby third floor: Restaurants with private rooms serving Chinese, Western, halal cuisines, and buffets. Food courts also offer casual meals.

Central corridor first floor: Casual dining areas are available here for quick and convenient meals.

(Cao Zhen)