Shenzhen Attractions | Nantou Ancient City
Shenzhen's history is not just about being a 'fishing village'. Explore the history of Shenzhen by visiting Nantou Ancient City
When people talk about Shenzhen, most of the discussion revolves around its 'youth' and 'innovation'. However, Shenzhen also has its own history (though, compared to other cities like Xi'an, Luoyang, Chengdu, etc., Shenzhen does lack a sense of historical weight). The Nantou Ancient City, to be introduced in this article, is one of the best-preserved ancient cities where modern trends and historical culture blend seamlessly. It exudes a strong commercial atmosphere while preserving many historical traces.
Nantou Ancient City has a history of nearly 1700 years. In 1988, it was declared a cultural relic protection unit in Shenzhen. Revered as the 'root of historical and cultural Shenzhen' and the 'eastern capital of Guangdong, the source of Hong Kong and Macao,' Nantou Ancient City is the origin of Shenzhen's urban development. It has witnessed the 'migration and return' of Shenzhen's central area. Over the centuries, it served as the administrative center, coastal defense fortress, hub for maritime transportation, and trading post for foreign trade in the Lingnan coastal region. The main street of Nantou Ancient City showcases the architectural style of Lingnan Guangfu.
Travel Guide
Attraction name: Nantou Ancient City（南头古城）
Address: 22.5430150, 113.9214280（深圳市南山区南山大道与深南大道交叉口）
Transportation: If you take the subway, alight at Zhongshan Park Station on Line 12, take Exit D, and walk 300 meters. Alternatively, you can opt for ride-hailing services like DiDi.
Recommendation:
Due to the fusion of modern commerce and the ancient city, please consider whether you mind the commercialization. The ancient city is neither too big nor too small, perfect for leisurely strolls. You can spend a relaxed half-day exploring, enjoying the sights, food, and drinks, taking photos as you go.
Nantou Ancient City is adjacent to Zhongshan Park. If you have ample time and wish to enjoy a more tranquil experience, consider paying a visit.
You might be interested: Map for sightseeing in Shenzhen, China
This article is filed under the Exploring Shenzhen China tag.