Gulbakhor Inoyatova

WHEN I first arrived in Shenzhen, I was struck by the city’s modernity, towering skyscrapers, green parks, and fast-paced lifestyle. Everything felt new and exciting. But among all the amazing places in this vibrant city, one continues to impress me every time I visit: Splendid China • China Folk Culture Villages.

Located in the heart of the city, this park is more than a tourist attraction. It’s a journey through China’s rich cultural heritage.

The park has two parts. The Splendid China miniature park area features scaled-down models of famous landmarks like the Great Wall and Forbidden City. The China Folk Culture Villages area allows visitors to explore the traditions, architecture, and customs of China’s 56 ethnic groups.

What makes this place so special is how it brings together China’s vast cultural landscape in one place. Walking through the village feels like traveling across the country in a single day, from Xizang temples and Miao houses to imperial palaces and desert forts. Every area is thoughtfully designed, full of color and detail.

The magic of Splendid China • China Folk Culture Villages goes beyond sightseeing. You can witness traditional wedding ceremonies, try local foods, learn calligraphy or kite-making, and interact with performers dressed in traditional ethnic costumes. Each experience offers a personal connection to culture, one you can see, hear, and even taste.

At night, the park comes alive with spectacular performances. The outdoor show “Dragon and Phoenix” blends dance, music, martial arts, and storytelling into a breathtaking experience. I still remember the elegant peacock dance by the performers and the powerful drumming that followed. The special effects, waterfalls, fire, and even live horses made it all feel like a dream.

To fellow expats, students, and travelers, I highly recommend visiting the park. It’s a powerful reminder that even in a fast-developing city like Shenzhen, tradition and progress can coexist beautifully.