Joshua Fernandez

THIS week’s series of photographs focuses on “parks and people” in Shenzhen. Shenzhen spans several kilometers from edge to edge, and within the city limits are more parks than you could imagine. These green spaces provide much-needed breathing room in a bustling metropolis, offering a haven for residents to connect with nature and each other.

In Shenzhen, the residents’ relationship with the parks is a special one. From morning to night, each park space is busy with Shenzheners engaged in all sorts of activities. From tai chi at sunrise, to afternoon music practice, to after-dinner reunions with neighbors and friends, the parks always have something going on. These activities highlight how parks serve as vital social hubs, fostering a sense of community and belonging in an otherwise fast-paced urban environment.

I often visit the parks during my photo walks because they show locals at their most relaxed and joyful moments. Shenzhen’s parks are more than just green areas — they are the lively heartbeats of the city, where everyday lives unfold and communities thrive.