Dapeng Fortress
大鹏所城
A Ming-dynasty coastal garrison town built to defend against Japanese pirate raids. It is the origin of Shenzhen's nickname 'Peng City,' and its walls, general's residences and bluestone-paved lanes are well preserved.
The Dapeng Fortress, formally known as the Dapeng Garrison Town, was built in 1394 during the 27th year of the Hongwu era. It was an important coastal stronghold during the Ming and Qing dynasties for resisting Japanese pirates and the British, and it is the source of Shenzhen's nickname 'Peng City.' It is a national key cultural relic protection site. The old town measures about 1,200 metres around. Its east, south and west gates and sections of the wall remain intact. Inside, cross streets such as South Gate Street and East Gate Street and bluestone lanes run in every direction. Highlights include the Zhenwei General's Residence of Lai Enjue, who fought the British in the Opium War, the residence of General Liu Qilong, Tianhou Temple, Houwang Temple and dozens of Ming and Qing dwellings. In recent years, Hakka restaurants, cafés and craft shops have opened here. The old town is free to enter, though some museums charge admission or require reservations. Getting there: take the E11 express bus from the city centre to Dapeng Fortress stop, which takes about 2 hours. By car, the trip takes about 1.5 hours. During holidays, the eastern scenic areas may require advance reservations. Jiaochangwei Beach is a 10-minute walk from the old town, so the two make a good day trip together.
Opening hours
Old town open all day (exhibition halls approx. 09:00–17:30)
Nearby sights
- Dongshan Temple
- Jiaochangwei
- Paiya Mountain
- Baguang Heritiera Wetland Park
- Judiaosha Beach
- Nan'ao Town & Seafood Street
- Yangmeikeng
- Dapeng Peninsula National Geopark (Qiniang Mountain)