AS the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting approaches, Shenzhen — long a magnet for tech-savvy shoppers — is drawing a new kind of international visitor: those heading to its hair salons.

Salon owners say foreign customers have become more frequent this year, with some visitors treating a salon appointment as part of their Shenzhen experience.

Wang Ke, a longtime stylist, estimates that the number of foreign customers at his salon has risen about 15% this year compared with 2025.

“Last year, we might see one or two foreign customers every month or two,” Wang said. “This year, the change is obvious — we get foreign visitors almost every week.”

A-Kai, a partner at a salon near the INJOY shopping mall in Futian District, has noticed a similar trend. The surrounding commercial area is planning a series of promotions to attract shoppers, and he expects foreign customer numbers to rise further.

Communication is rarely a problem, Wang said. Every stylist has a translation app on their phone to help understand customers’ preferences and specific requests. Visitors have praised the attentive service and stylists’ technical skills.

Wang said small touches can make a difference. When cutting long hair, for example, stylists take care to keep strands from brushing against a customer’s face, helping protect their comfort and makeup.

“There are many details like this, and many salons do the same,” he said. “Along with the quality of our work, meticulous service is one of our advantages over salons in overseas markets.”

Wang also pointed to differences in location and amenities. Many mid- to high-end salons in Shenzhen are in major shopping malls in central districts, where customers can also find dining, shopping and entertainment.

For visitors, a salon appointment can be part of a wider day out. “Many foreign tourists do their homework before coming to Shenzhen and know the local rhythm,” A-Kai said. “They go to a mall or pedestrian street, get their hair done, then shop, eat and relax.”

In Shenzhen, a haircut can be more than a standalone service. For some visitors, it is one stop in a day of shopping, dining and entertainment.

(SD News)