Oleg Mikhailov and Ira Nova at Guanlan printmaking village.

When speaking of Shenzhen, people often recall its booming sci-tech dynamism and rapid urban development. Yet this coastal metropolis is far more than an innovation hub; it embraces cultural legacy and humanistic spirit.

Nestled in Longhua district, Guanlan printmaking village breathes new life into the 300-year-old Hakka village. Gray-tiled southern China houses and old watchtowers stand beside lotus ponds, creating rustic charm and a peaceful atmosphere.

These renovated ancient dwellings are not frozen historical relics. They now serve as a famous artistic exchange base, becoming a hub for 200 artists from more than 100 countries and regions over the past few years.

Oleg Mikhailov, a printmaking artist from Russia, has been working on a picture under the theme of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation. In the picture's center, there is a huge boat recalling Shenzhen's fishing-village past. The color red dominates the work.

"We can compare human life to a boat sailing on the ocean. APEC is about the Pacific Ocean, which connects a lot of countries. That's why I chose the boat as a topic for my picture. The color red is associated with celebration in Chinese culture, which also conveys some common feelings between China and Russia," he said.

This is his fourth time he has come to Guanlan for printmaking and he regards the village as an artistic paradise beyond expectations.

"There may be no other place like this in the world for printmakers. It is a huge studio with modern machines, helpful team members and fine conditions," he said. "And it was my first time living in a heritage house. When I came here for the first time, it was so exotic to me."

Ira Nova, an influencer from Russia, was surprised to meet an artist from her country during a media tour themed "Shenzhen's Hidden Gems" in October.

"It is really nice to meet somebody from your homeland. Walking around this architectural place, the beautiful environment, trees and quiet atmosphere can give you a lot of imagination for art," she said.

After exploring Shenzhen's landmark parks, scientific innovation, museums and varied public facilities, she found out that Guanlan village is the spot she is particularly fond of.

In Shenzhen's city planning, the coastlines and rivers of the bay area have helped shape the distinctive appearance of this coastal city.

Located on the Qianhai waterfront, the Bay Area Store of Shenzhen Book City is a cultural landmark built to house retail bookstores, exhibition spaces, innovation showcases and a park for public entertainment.

Dubbed the "Eyes of the GBA", it houses a book collection of more than 300,000 volumes that range from arts and design to humanities and parenting. The landmark has received millions of visitors, becoming a popular cultural space for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

In 2026, continuous cultural events including cross-border scholar salons, international theater performances and cultural fairs have helped enrich public life.

Shenzhen's city building is essentially about shaping a public way of life. Urban infrastructure has developed and evolved in the city. Disused industrial areas have become creative hubs and ancient towns have gained new vitality by combining heritage with modern elements. Lakes, mountains, coastlines and other natural landscapes are carefully used in the city to deliver public parks and cultural spaces.