SEEKING refuge from the sweltering heat, a growing number of young people in Shenzhen are trading coastal excursions for the controlled depths of indoor diving pools. This emerging trend has transformed indoor diving into a “dark horse” of the city’s summer economy, the Shenzhen Evening News reported Thursday.

A resident surnamed Liu, who began her training at a center in Shekou, said she has already progressed from 9-meter to 33-meter depths.

The surge in interest is particularly evident at new facilities like the JUST DIVING center in Bao’an District. Despite opening only a month ago, the center’s state-of-the-art 33-meter pool has quickly become a local favorite. On a recent weekday afternoon, the pool was bustling with 30 divers. Staff members noted that to avoid the crowds, visitors are encouraged to arrive before 11 a.m. or after 7 p.m.

While Shekou remains the traditional hub for the city’s diving scene — offering established facilities for scuba, free diving, and mermaid-style diving — the demand is spreading citywide. Weekend bookings are significantly higher than those on weekdays, and industry experts expect a further surge in mid-June following the conclusion of the annual National College Entrance Exam, or gaokao. Inquiries for youth interest classes and summer experience camps are also on the rise.

Industry analysts suggest that Shenzhen’s summer economy is moving away from traditional outdoor entertainment toward indoor immersive and recreational sports. Indoor diving, which combines physical exercise and social interaction with social-media-friendly aesthetics, appeals to a younger demographic seeking novel experiences.

Shenzhen now hosts 1,909 water sports venues.

However, professionals warn that the indoor setting does not eliminate the inherent risks of the sport. Liu, a diving instructor, emphasized that all underwater training must be conducted under the supervision of a professional, regardless of a diver’s experience. Instructors also stress the importance of the “buddy system,” reminding participants to never dive alone or exceed authorized depths. (SD News)