Shenzhen Weekend Getaway｜Sea Breeze at Yantian Port and Leisurely Moments at OCT East

Seeking to escape the city's hustle and bustle, I spontaneously decided on a short trip around Shenzhen for the weekend. In less than an hour's drive, the towering skyscrapers of the city gradually faded away, replaced by sea breezes, mountain silhouettes, and tranquility. The first stop was Yantian Port. The salty sea air carried a faint fishy aroma, while the scent of seafood rice rolls wafting from the stalls instantly whetted my appetite. A steaming bowl of soup noodles, brimming with the flavors of the sea, featured fresh shrimp, fish slices, and squid glistening in the broth. Simple yet satisfying, this "everyday local flavor" left a lasting impression. Next, I took a ride to OCT East. When it opened in 2007, it was Shenzhen's most enchanting resort destination—complete with cable cars, theme parks, and an art village. Back then, it was a weekend paradise bustling with visitors. Today, it has shed the noisy crowds, embracing a serene stillness that comes with the passage of time. The old cable car cables swayed gently in the wind, moss grew between the stone steps, and sunlight filtered through the treetops, casting light onto the empty pathways. It felt as if the place was quietly reminding me: though its stories have quieted, they still hold warmth. Walking along the wooden boardwalk by the lake, gazing at the distant mountain silhouettes and their reflections in the blue sky, I couldn't help but think that perhaps this "semi-forgotten state" suits it better—a place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and have a conversation with oneself. This trip wasn't about checking off bustling tourist spots. It was about the sea breeze, mountain views, and a long-overdue sense of relaxation. Shenzhen is not just a city of towering skyscrapers; it also has corners where one can catch their breath.✨