Malaysia Airlines offers flights to new gateways in China
CHINA is emerging as a preferred travel destination in Asia, thanks to its visa-free policy for Malaysians, proximity to home and greater value.
Now, Malaysia Airlines opens the door to even more of China with the launch of direct flights to Shenzhen and Changsha, beginning July 2026.
With the airlines’ signature Malaysian Hospitality on board, the journey begins long before you land.
Inside China’s tech capital
From its humble beginnings as a small fishing village, Shenzhen has evolved into one of China’s largest cities and a major tech hub, home to industry giants such as Tencent and Huawei.
Underneath that futuristic facade is a place where old-world charm still dwells among its streets.
Ancient structures, boutique shops and creative spaces sit side by side within the city’s urban sprawl.
Stroll through the historic grounds of the Nantou Ancient City and Dapeng Fortress, where they reveal a side of Shenzhen that predates its modern skyline.
Dive into Shenzhen’s art scene at the Dafen Oil Painting Village, where artists work in open studios. Continue your adventure by visiting the Gankeng Hakka Town, a cultural village where old courtyards and scenic lanes offer glimpses into traditional Hakka heritage and history.
Enjoy the city’s slower pace with a stroll in the lush greenery of Lianhuashan Park, a hike on the scenic trails of Wutong Mountain, or watch the sea shimmer against the quiet sunset at Dameisha Beach.
For families, Window of the World makes for a fun-filled day of exploring famous landmarks from around the globe in one place, while Huafa Ice and Snow World brings the winter fun indoors all year round.
Innovation enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Shenzhen Science and Technology Museum, where immersive displays and hands-on exhibits make for a surprisingly fun day out.
Beyond Shenzhen is a 15-minute train ride to Hong Kong through seamless connection to high-speed rail and metro, while Guangzhou is only a little under an hour on high-speed rail, making both easy twin-city additions to any trip.
Starting from July 1, Malaysia Airlines will now have direct flights to Shenzhen. With up to seven times weekly flights, these cities are now more accessible than ever for travellers.
Changsha, the city of youths
In Hunan province, the capital of Changsha tells a different story from that of urban Shenzhen, where centuries of cultural heritage sit alongside a youthful energy.
Fuelled by a large student population, the city pulses with energetic nightlife, a booming creative scene and a food culture known nationwide.
Starting July 8, Malaysia Airlines flies direct to Changsha up to seven times weekly, providing a convenient gateway for travellers to its bustling streets, sweeping landscapes and a food culture waiting for you to be savoured.
Take a trip downtown to Wuyi Square, Changsha’s vibrant commercial centre and entertainment hub where malls, trendy cafes and nightlife are at your fingertips to indulge in.
A 15-20 minute walk from Wuyi Square will take you to the streets of Wenheyou’s retro neighbourhood, where Changsha’s past and present converge.
Its vintage shopfronts, neon signs and local eateries fill its alleyways, making it ideal for food hunts and photo-worthy moments.
The city’s natural landscapes also deserve a spotlight. Soak in the scenic riverside view of the Xiang River on Orange Island and hike the trails to Yuelu Mountain for panoramic views of the city.
But if you’d like to get an up-close look at the Xiang River, Du Fu River Pavilion is especially beautiful at sunset when the pavilion is illuminated.
On the outskirts of Hunan, Zhangjiajie is home to the quartz-sandstone pillars of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, which inspired the floating mountains in the Avatar movie.
A four-hour car ride from Changsha, this breathtaking formation is a living, breathing painting.
Its misty mountain landscapes, majestic stone pillars and otherworldly scenery are sure to captivate your senses and leave you longing for more.
Journey south to discover Heaven’s Gate at Tianmen Mountain.
At an elevation of 1,518 metres, the cave forms a natural archway between the towering cliffs.
This awe-inspiring sight is sure to take your breath away, reminding you of nature’s most humbling wonders.
A journey like no other
Beyond Shenzhen and Changsha, Malaysia Airlines also connects you to other major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xiamen and Chengdu, so that there’s always more of China left to discover.
Whether you’re flying to Shenzhen or Changsha, Malaysia Airlines gets you there with the full-service experience you deserve, featuring complimentary checked baggage from 20kg, so there’s room for shopping finds and souvenirs on the way home.
When you’re on board, top off your journey by savouring specially prepared Best of Asia meals.
From warm, attentive service to thoughtfully prepared meals, Malaysia Airlines’ signature Malaysian Hospitality makes every flight feel like it was made just for you.
When it’s time to plan your trip, booking directly with Malaysia Airlines comes with added benefits.
Enjoy an additional 5% off every flight as an Enrich member, along with a hassle-free refund upon an unsuccessful visa application, customisable bookings including seats and meal preferences, options to upgrade your journey with savings on Seat Selection, child fares for holidays with little ones, plus unlimited complimentary rebooking when you book Flex fares.
Book now via Malaysia Airlines.
Scan the QR code, or via the app to get up to 15% off flights. Enrich member enjoy an additional 5% off.
