Hongkonger Dominique Li and his wife spent a two-day break earlier this month in Shenzhen to soak up the cultural vibe, a short getaway they said would not be their last.

The 45-year-old engineer, who lives in Tin Shui Wai in the northwestern New Territories, was particularly drawn to a new landmark, Shenzhen Bay Culture Square in Nanshan district.

He treated his visit to Shenzhen like a trip to Hong Kong’s Causeway Bay shopping district, which also takes about an hour.

“The spaces here are bigger and there’s more choice. If you want high-end consumption you can find it, but there are also lots of cafes and more relaxed places where people can just sit and spend time,” Li said at the Shenzhen cultural plaza.

“It feels like there are always new things opening, so it gives you a reason to come back again.”

The couple are among droves of Hongkongers drawn back to Shenzhen because of its new, convenient and more economical offerings. Experts warn that Hong Kong must leverage its international status and unique events to counter the mainland city’s booming, budget-friendly attractions – or risk losing ground.