Shenzhen is a city of sub-provincial administrative status in southern China 's Guangdong province, situated immediately north of Hong Kong. Owing to China 's economic liberalization from the policies of reformist leader Deng Xiaoping, the area became China 's first - and ultimately most successful - Special Economic Zone.

Shenzhen's novel and modern cityscape is the result of the vibrant economy made possible by rapid foreign investment since the late 1970s, when it was but a small fishing village. Since then, foreign nationals have invested more than US$30 billion for building factories and forming joint ventures. It is now reputedly one of the fastest growing cities in the world. Being southern China 's major financial centre, Shenzhen is home to the Shenzhen Stock Exchange as well as the headquarters of numerous high-tech companies. Shenzhen is also the second busiest port in mainland China, ranking only after Shanghai.

This "spirit" is easily lost on travellers who pass through Shenzhen on their way to other destinations. At first glance the city may not hold much appeal. However, if you venture away from the train station and explore its streets and alleys, you might just discover, behind the glow of the neon, the plush shopping malls, and the unabashed commercialism, a unique city is taking shape.