A cartoon image generated by Doubao AI.
One of just three Chinese mainland cities with a profitable metro system, Shenzhen's underground network is cherished by locals not only for its convenience and efficiency, but also for its novel experiences and thoughtful services.
Gangxia North Station
Gangxia North Station. File photos
Since opening in October 2022, this futuristic transfer hub has drawn crowds for selfies. Its expansive hall has since evolved into a vibrant cultural space, hosting exhibitions and pop-up stores.
Running through the Lantern Festival, a current pop-up titled "Galloping into the City of Miracles" has become a fresh attraction. Centered around four Spring Festival Gala mascots, the store displays plush toys, features a merry-go-round installation, and includes a message wall where visitors can leave their new-year wishes.
A pop-up store themed on Spring Festival Gala mascots at Gangxia North Station.
Three of the mascot designs take inspiration from iconic horse depictions in classical Chinese art — including Western Zhou (1046–771 B.C.) and Han Dynasty (202 B.C.–AD 220) bronzeware, and Tang Dynasty (618–907) tri-colored glazed pottery. The fourth is modeled on Przewalski's horse, the world's only surviving wild horse species, whose population in Chinese nature reserves has rebounded to around 900 thanks to sustained conservation efforts since 1985.
The station also recently hosted an exhibition showcasing ancient architecture, murals, painted sculptures, and intangible cultural heritage from Shanxi Province in Northwest China, attracting many visitors.
Huangmugang Station
Huangmugang Station offers snooker tables and other sports facilities.
On the station's underground level, a 1,100-square-meter gym offers three badminton courts, three snooker tables, and a pickleball court, allowing commuters to turn fragments of time into exercise.
Regular visitor Ms. Chen praised the badminton facilities: "The courts meet professional standards, and it's very convenient — just two stops from my home. Being indoors also means comfort during hot summers or rainy days."
Open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., the badminton courts have maintained an 80% occupancy rate since launching. Daytime slots (7 a.m.–5 p.m.) on weekdays are priced at 50 yuan (US$7) per hour.
Thoughtful services across the network
Lockers at a Metro station.
Shenzhen Metro has further enhanced convenience with luggage lockers, snack outlets, and free umbrella services at multiple stations.
Thirty-eight luggage deposit points — located at 34 major hubs or stations near tourist areas — provide 750 lockers in various sizes, suitable for backpacks, suitcases, and even foldable bicycles.
The dim sum stall at Futian Station.
At Futian Station, a metro-operated dim sum stall sells traditional snacks, breakfast items, and drinks. Other stations, including Shenzhen North, Gangxia North, and Huangmugang, host food carts offering healthy breakfast choices for busy commuters.
Free red umbrellas are available for loan.
A limited number of free red umbrellas are also available for loan. Passengers can inquire with station staff or, on Lines 4 and 13, reserve an umbrella via the "港铁深圳live+" WeChat Mini Program before collecting it on-site.
Since 2023, the metro has opened "cooling spaces" at 17 stations — such as Songgang Park and Sports Center on Line 6, and Shenyun, Shangsha, and Huaqiang South on Line 7 — where residents can rest and enjoy complimentary reading materials during the summer heat.
