Nestled deep within the mountains on the edge of Shenzhen, Jingui Village in Pingshan District feels a world away from the city's bustling streets. Originally built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and named after the golden-turtle-shaped mountain that rises behind it, this centuries-old Hakka village has witnessed nearly 400 years of history. Once a key stop along ancient trade routes, it now offers one of the city's most complete and unspoiled windows into a slower, more peaceful way of life.
A villager works on the farmland in Jingui Village.
A portrait of Hakka heritage
Unlike many commercialized tourist towns, Jingui Village preserves its original soul. Crystal-clear Jingui Creek meanders through the area, connecting seven natural hamlets that nestle into the hillsides and cluster along the water's edge. Wandering the village lanes, you won't find crowds. Instead, the air is filled with the rustle of breeze-touched leaves, the murmur of the stream, and the occasional sight of a farmer working the fields.
For stressed-out city dwellers, Jingui has quietly become a weekend sanctuary. Here, you can hike, cycle, camp, and wade in the stream. No itinerary is needed — every turn reveals either the gentle patina of age or a small, delightful surprise.
A building in Jingui Village.
A fairytale country lane
The village paths are gentle and inviting, flanked by lush plants and scattered wildflowers. With no one else around, you're left to enjoy the whispers of the wind and the distant sound of water. On sunny days, the light-drenched paths feel like something straight out of a storybook — far from the solemn or mysterious atmosphere of some ancient towns, Jingu is simply warm and alive.
Camping town
With vast grassy areas and forest camps, Jingui is a hidden gem for campers. There's plenty of space even on busy days. Spend an afternoon sitting quietly among the birdsong and mountain breeze, watch the sunset paint the hills, and embrace a pure sense of ease without needing any fancy gear.
A street scene in Jingui Village.
Summer creek wading
In summer, Jingui Creek draws visitors seeking refuge from the heat. The water is clear and cool as it flows gently through the valley, sparkling under the sunlight. You can dip your toes in the shallow shoals — the moment you step into the water, the summer heat begins to melt away.
Visitors have fun at Jingui Creek. Photos from "ShenzhenWeekly"
Jingui Nature Bookshop
Tucked into the forest and renovated from a traditional Hakka house, the Jingui Nature Bookshop houses over 3,000 volumes, many on natural history, along with insect specimen displays. Here, time slows down as visitors read quietly or simply gaze out the window at the greenery outside. It's the perfect spot to while away an afternoon.
An exterior view of Jingui Nature Bookshop.
Getting there
Metro: Line 14 to Jinlong Station (锦龙站), Exit A, then transfer to Bus 833 or M220 to Jingui Village. A taxi from the Metro station is also convenient.
Bus: Routes 818, M279, M343, or 915 to Jingui Village Station (金龟村站) or Pingshan District Theme Education Hall Station (坪山区主题教育馆站)
Driving: Navigate to Jingui Nature Bookshop, Jingui Camping Town, or Banba Residential Group (金龟自然书房/金龟露营小镇/半坝居民小组). Free parking is available at the community center, camping town, Xintang Village, and Banba Village (社区工作、露营小镇、新塘村、半坝村).
