One Street, Two Systems: A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Shenzhen’s Zhongying Street

Located in Shatoujiao, Yantian District, Shenzhen, Zhongying Street is backed by Wutong Mountain and faces Dapeng Bay. Formerly known as “Lucici Path”, it formed the pattern of “one street, two systems” after the signing of the Convention for the Extension of Hong Kong Territory in 1899, with the east side belonging to Shenzhen and the west side to Hong Kong. As one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Shenzhen and a National Historical and Cultural Street, this 250-meter-long street is both a witness to a century of history and a tourist resort integrating shopping and cultural charm.

Cultural check-ins are the core experience of Zhongying Street. Eight century-old boundary stones stand quietly, among which the No.4 boundary stone and the adjacent ancient banyan tree form a classic scene—the roots take hold in Shenzhen and the branches cover Hong Kong, interpreting the profound meaning of “roots in the motherland, leaves covering Hong Kong”. The free Zhongying Street History Museum (closed on Mondays) has four floors of exhibition halls displaying cultural relics and images to restore the vicissitudes from occupation to reunification, and the top-floor observation deck offers a view of Hong Kong’s New Territories and Dapeng Bay. In addition, attractions such as the Warning Bell and the Qing Dynasty ancient well also carry profound historical memories.

Shopping and food add highlights to the trip. As a duty-free block, it offers cost-effective skincare products, Hong Kong-style snacks and health products. Look for the “Guangdong Provincial Trustworthy Consumption Commitment Unit” sign to avoid scams, with a customs limit of ≤3000 yuan per person. For food, try Michelin-recommended Mak An Kee Wonton Noodles, intangible cultural heritage Yuqingchi Silk Stocking Milk Tea, and curry fish balls, Musang King durian at Qiaotou Street Night Market to experience cross-border charm.

Preparation before the trip: Make free reservations via the “iShenzhen” APP or “Beautiful Yantian” official WeChat account. Shenzhen household registration holders can visit once every 7 days, non-Shenzhen ones once every 30 days, and seniors over 60 can pass with ID card without reservation. Opening hours: 9:00-22:00 (stop issuing permits at 21:00). Take Metro Line 8 to Shatoujiao Station Exit B, then transfer to Bus B619. It’s recommended to travel during off-peak hours.