Shenzhen hopes for hit with 'electronic music bus'

In a bid to attract tourists and showcase its vibrant music scene, Shenzhen in Guangdong province will unveil its "electronic music bus" to the public next week.

According to Yang Jialun, director of the Shenzhen Bus Group's business department, the electronic music bus project aims to provide tourists with a mobile musical experience and a one-of-a-kind journey.

"Shenzhen is renowned for its innovative spirit, and we wanted to create an immersive experience that combines our city's love for technology with its vibrant electronic music scene," Yang told China Daily.

On Friday, a test tour was organized in conjunction with Baoan district's bureau of culture, sports, radio, television and tourism. A total of 50 reporters, internet influencers and electronic music professionals participated in the event.

Designed to include elements of the Shenzhen landscape such as Phoenix Mountain and Qingping Ancient Market, the electronic music bus has flourishes of fluorescent green and pink paint. Although the interior layout is conventional, the bus is equipped with a state-of-the-art sound system, LED lights and touch screens that allow passengers to interact with the music.

On Friday, the bus departed from Huanle Harbor, the busiest area of Baoan, and then traveled through key areas while providing passengers with a unique way to explore the city's musical landscape. During the journey, DJs and other artists played electronic music, and in the future there are plans to get well-known performers to participate.

Yang said the project not only aims to attract tourists but also helps promote local talent.

"We have collaborated with local DJs and musicians, giving them a platform to showcase their skills and creativity. This initiative not only attracts tourists but also supports our local music industry," Yang said.

Lin Jialin, an assistant professor at the School of Journalism and Communication at Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou believes that the electronic music bus has the potential to redefine the tourism experience in Shenzhen.

"Music has always been an integral part of any culture, and Shenzhen's electronic music scene is no exception. By incorporating this element into tourism offerings, Shenzhen is positioning itself as a hub for music enthusiasts," Lin said.

"It offers a unique and captivating experience for both tourists and locals. This initiative not only highlights Shenzhen's vibrant cultural heritage but also strengthens its position as a global leader in technological advancements," Lin added.

The electronic music bus tour will start operating on Qixi Festival, or Chinese Valentine's Day, which falls on Aug 22.

"Electronic music has been a huge part of my life, and I've always wanted to immerse myself in its culture. A bus tour dedicated to electronic music would be the ultimate adventure for me," one netizen said on Weibo about the project.

Yi Yang contributed to this story.