Dafen Oil Painting Village, Shenzhen
Browse studios and commission art; mornings are quieter. Metro and transfers: see Shenzhen Metro guide.
How to include this in your trip
Plan this trip faster with our free online itinerary maker. Get a personalized day-by-day plan in minutes.
Plan around this stop with our Shenzhen itinerary—slot it into the 3-day itinerary or the 5-day itinerary.
Nearby/Similar: Check Shenzhen Museum or evening at Coco Park.
Overview
Dafen is the city’s art production hub and a fascinating look at painting workshops, galleries, and custom commission studios.
Best time and duration
- Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours to browse studios and talk to artists.
- Best time: Morning for quieter lanes and better light for photos.
What to do
- Wander the lanes and step into studios; ask about current works and commissions.
- Shortlist 3–5 galleries beforehand to avoid backtracking.
- Buy small works or prints for easy packing.
Getting there
Take the metro and walk into the village from the nearest station. The walkways are compact; comfortable shoes help. For metro planning, see the Metro guide.
Food & breaks
Casual cafes and snack spots dot the area. If you prefer more options, head to city malls afterward for a broader selection.
Etiquette & tips
- Ask before photographing artists at work.
- Negotiate politely; respect studio time and materials.
- For commissions, clarify size, reference images, turnaround, and packaging.