Shenzhen is renowned for an extensive network of greenways and hiking trails totaling more than 200 kilometers. Joining the network is the recently opened Talent Greenway (Rencai Greenway) in Longhua District, China’s first green path themed around talent and civic life.

The mildly sloped, 8-kilometer trail starts at Shenzhen North Railway Station Central Park and climbs into wooded hills, linking viewpoints, interactive features and five themed stops. At a relaxed pace a full loop takes roughly two hours, making it a good outdoor destination for families with young children and hiking beginners. The trail is ideal for strolling, casual cycling, dog walking and family outings.

The Talent Greenway in Longhua offers a leisurely hike. File photos

As its name suggests, the Talent Greenway integrates workplace culture, lifelong learning and career themes into its landscape design. The route connects five major spots — Qunxian (Gathering of Talents) Plaza, Qiuzhi (Knowledge) Garden, Pinbo (Striving) Ridge, Path of Dedication, and Butterfly Valley — each offering distinct scenery, installations and activities that reflect different stages of career life.

The hike begins at Qunxian Plaza, where a winding “Reform Trail” marks milestones of Shenzhen’s reform and opening-up drive. Nearby is a multifunctional hub with an exhibition hall, a lecture room, meeting spaces, a book bar and a service desk that hosts regular events.

The “tree of wisdom” at Qiuzhi Garden.

At the center of Qiuzhi Garden stands a flourishing flame tree (Delonix regia), known as the “Tree of Wisdom,” surrounded by benches inscribed with university and discipline names. A Nature Education Center runs science programs and themed workshops, and a children’s play area with slides and climbing features makes the garden family-friendly.

Continuing upward, Pinbo Ridge is built along a gentle slope and features stone installations engraved with inspirational quotes chronicling key moments of Shenzhen’s history.

The Path of Dedication is lined with sculptures. 

Winding through forested valleys, the Path of Dedication is lined with sculptures representing different professions to honor everyday contributors. At the terminus of the greenway, Butterfly Valley follows a stream lined by lush greenery; murals of birds and butterflies adorn the pillars of an elevated walkway.

An aerial view of the “10th planet” playground.

The greenway links directly to the 170,000-square-meter Shenzhen North Railway Station Central Park, which is easily accessible by Metro. The park itself is worth exploring: highlights include a 100-meter skywalk with 360° views, an arced “flower waterfall,” the blue-themed10th Planet” children’s playground, and a cloud-shaped book bar where visitors can relax with coffee and views of the nearby architecture.

Tips:

l Wear long sleeves and use mosquito repellent.

l Drinking-water points are provided along the greenway, but there are no convenience stores on the route.

l Restrooms are available along the trail.

l Metro: Lines 4,5 and 6 to North Railway Station(深圳北站), Exit A and walk through the West Square.