"While Shenzhen is the undisputed capital of electronics manufacturing, tucked away beneath the towering skycrapers is a more unusual claim to fame, the capital of mass replica art manufacturing.
Dafen Oil Painting Village is the knock-off oil painting capital of the world, producing 60% of the world’s art reproductions. Here, you can buy as many Van Goghs, Monets, and classical Chinese landscapes as you’d like, or commission a painting of your own. In the galleries at Dafen Village, hundreds of budding artists work to recreate famous masterpieces to sell overseas at cheap prices. (Notably, in addition to the replicas, there are some artists who have independent galleries selling original work.)
The village has a surprising small-town feel within the extremely urban Shenzhen. Walk along the outskirts and you’ll find chicken coops and kids running underfoot, as well as a cottage industry of all the painting supplies you could need." - ATLAS_OBSCURA
Quick getaways from Singapore for the best shopping - SilverKris
"A village dedicated to paintings where visitors can watch artists recreate famous works—such as Van Gogh’s sunflowers—commission photo copies and stock up on brushes and art supplies, making it an immersive art-production hub." - SilverKris
If you love art, this is the perfect place to explore, you’ll find many artists creating live paintings, from handcrafted pieces to ultra-realistic works. It’s a wonderful showcase of the incredible talent in Shenzhen, and a great opportunity to support local artists.
R
Google
It’s like buying fake brand clothes, but for art. Incredible prices. Loads of bad paintings but also some beautiful ones. A small oil painting with frame can be about 10USD. Prices aren’t fixed, but don’t try to get more then 30% off.
Large photo realistic commissions start at $100 USD. Good vibes as well. Definitely worth a visit.
Fen R.
Google
A wide selection of paintings is available. Some shops also offer customized painting options. The surroundings are remarkably serene.
Annalisa B.
Google
Really enjoyed walking around this district and have a look at those exceptional oil paintings. Ended up bringing a few back home!
Definitely worth it!
Philip S (.
Google
We picked the wrong time to come (early 2025) as it was CNY. Still, a handful of stores were opened so we could get a basic feeling of what this painting village would look like in normal workday. We also managed to visit an art gallery for free so it wasn't too bad after all. Of course, if I come again I might have a better understanding of the site and give it a better rating.
April C.
Google
Originally a center for masterwork replica production, Dafen Village has expanded to include numerous art workshops and original artwork studios. While replicas are still available, visitors can now also explore a variety of original works, galleries and local coffee shops. It’s a great place to explore at a relaxed pace for a couple of hours.
Timothée V.
Google
Must must must visit while in shenzhen. It's a hidden gem. The whole place is very serene. There are like 50+ shops selling paintings and all of them are beautiful. Cars are not allowed inside so the whole village is quiet. The best thing about it is that it is not crowded at all or destroyed by mass tourism. It feels very authentic. Easily accessible by metro from the city center. I would say it's worth de detour of any china trip.
Chris S.
Google
Very cool street of painting shops with different styles, and you can even try your hand at any of the diy workshops to paint your own painting or make a pottery. Nice street for a short spin!