One Street, Two Systems, Zhongying Street is a former shopping paradise that has emerged as a place of national pride. The 250-meter-long street remains as one of Shenzhen's most popular tourist attractions. The street lies in Shatoujiao Township, Yantian District between Wutong Mountain and the South China Sea. In 1898, stone markers were placed along the middle of the street to mark the border between Hong Kong and Shenzhen. In that time, Hong Kong was under British rule. Today, half of the street is still part of Hong Kong and half of Shenzhen. That is why it has been referred to as Zhongying Street, which means Chinese-English Street.
Zhongying Street is listed as one of Shenzhen's top eight scenic spots because of its two systems and its historical relevance. Many say that the street has mundane surroundings, but it exudes with vibrancy and culture. In 1898, the street marked the treaty between China and the United Kingdom. Eight boundary stones divided the street into two parts: Mainland China and British rule.
Stores pack both sides of the street and remind visitors of Hong Kong as an early bustling economic center. At one point, Zhongying Street was the nation's number one gold street. Many Hong Kongers came to the street to cash in. Today, there are around 50 stores selling gold items, which are reputed not only for their design, but also for their affordable price. The street is duty-free with affordable prices and good quality products make the street popular among travelers to Shenzhen.
The street is the home of the 110-year-old banyan tree with its luxurious leaves and straight trunk. The tree is rooted on what was once known as the Chinese side and after several decades, the tree has begun to root on the Hong Kong side. The tree is a symbol of the two cultures, and has provided a source of inspiration for various artistic creations.
Since Shenzhen's rapid economic development, the street has gradually lost its former commercial glory, but the street remains as one of the most precious historical attractions that encompass entertainment, shopping and sightseeing.
Note: Tourists need special permits to get to Zhongying Street. Permits can be obtained in the Travel Center Hall located on the first floor of Hanhaicuiting in Shatoujiao County (located before the Zhongying St and Shenzhen border)
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