Pickleball in China: Where to Play & Why It’s Growing So Fast
Pickleball in China: The Fastest Growing Sport You Haven’t Tried
Pickleball is taking off in China, especially in major cities like Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Beijing. With its low barrier to entry and high social appeal, it is becoming the go-to sport for families, seniors, and young professionals alike.
Where to Play in Shenzhen
Shenzhen has seen a surge in pickleball court construction. Here are the top places to play:
- Lianhuashan Park — multiple outdoor courts, free to use
- Shenzhen Bay Sports Center — indoor courts with booking system
- Shenzhen University — courts open to the public on weekends
- Private clubs in Nanshan and Futian districts — membership required
How China is Embracing Pickleball
The China Pickleball Association (CPA) was established in 2022 and has been actively promoting the sport through tournaments, coaching programs, and school partnerships. Shenzhen alone now has over 50 dedicated pickleball courts, with more being built every month.
Why Pickleball Works in China
- Limited space? Pickleball courts are 1/3 the size of tennis courts
- Multi-generational: grandparents, parents, and kids can all play together
- Social media friendly: the sport looks great on Douyin (TikTok) and Xiaohongshu
- Affordable: gear costs a fraction of tennis or badminton equipment
Ready to join the movement? Shop our gear and get on the court today.