Nantou Ancient City, also known as Xin’an Old Town, is a historic site in Nanshan District, Shenzhen, with a history spanning nearly 1,700 years. Established in 331 AD during the Eastern Jin Dynasty as the administrative center of Dongguan Prefecture, it later became a significant maritime hub and military stronghold during the Tang and Ming dynasties. Today, this well-preserved cultural landmark is open to visitors free of charge, offering a fascinating glimpse into Shenzhen’s past.
Nantou Ancient City is situated in Nanshan District, Shenzhen, making it easily accessible for visitors.
Free entry, allowing tourists to explore this historic gem at their own pace.
By Car: Navigate to Nantou Ancient City South Gate Parking Lot for convenient parking.
By Metro:
Line 12, Nantou Ancient City Station (Exit C) – South Gate
Line 12, Zhongshan Park Station (Exit D) – East Gate
Open 24/7, perfect for both daytime exploration and evening strolls through ancient streets.
The origins of Nantou Ancient City trace back to 331 AD when it was established as Dongguan Prefecture’s administrative center during the Eastern Jin Dynasty. Over the centuries, the city evolved into a key maritime trading hub and a defensive fortress. In 1394 (Ming Dynasty, Hongwu Emperor’s reign), Nantou underwent a major reconstruction, becoming a strategic military base for the Dongguan Defense Battalion.
Despite centuries of change, Nantou Ancient City still retains its Ming and Qing-era architectural style, traditional street patterns, and rich cultural heritage, making it one of Shenzhen’s most historically significant landmarks.
Nantou Ancient City follows a Ming Dynasty city layout, consisting of five main districts: Beifang, Nancheng, Zhonghui, Xiji, and Donglang.
The city’s streets form a “six vertical, one horizontal” structure, with the key roads being:
Zhongshan East Street & Zhongshan West Street (Main east-west road)
Zhongshan South Street & Zhongshan North Street (Main north-south road)
Other streets include Nan Street, Bei Street, Chaoyang Street, Xingming Street, Chunjing Street, Wutong Street, and Wenhua Street
This grid-like street arrangement not only preserves the ancient charm but also makes navigation simple for visitors.
Built in 1394, this iconic Ming-era structure is the main entrance to the city and a top photo spot for visitors.
The only surviving guild hall in Shenzhen, showcasing the city’s commercial and migration history. It provides valuable insights into Shenzhen’s early trade and business culture.
Established in 1573 (Ming Dynasty, Wanli Emperor’s reign), this historical site served as the administrative center of Nantou Ancient City for over 400 years.
A traditional ancestral hall for the Wen family, now repurposed as a cultural museum highlighting filial piety and Confucian values in ancient Shenzhen.
A modern exhibition space featuring “The Prosperous Scene of Nantou”, a large silk painting that vividly illustrates life in ancient Nantou. The exhibition utilizes digital storytelling to bring history to life.
This museum houses Ming and Qing Dynasty plaques collected from the surrounding area, each telling a unique story about the city’s cultural heritage and social customs.
The ancient streets, historic gates, and well-preserved architecture provide a perfect backdrop for photography, whether capturing traditional Chinese aesthetics or blending modern and old-world charm.
Nantou Ancient City is home to numerous traditional restaurants and food stalls where visitors can enjoy Cantonese barbecue, Hakka cuisine, and sweet dessert soups.
The area boasts a variety of handicraft and cultural souvenir shops, offering calligraphy works, vintage accessories, and locally inspired art pieces.
Visitors can dive deep into Shenzhen’s history through interactive exhibitions, cultural tours, and museum displays, gaining a deeper understanding of the city’s past.
Nantou Ancient City stands as a testament to Shenzhen’s deep-rooted history, seamlessly blending ancient architecture, cultural heritage, and modern experiences. As one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, it offers a free and immersive historical journey for locals and tourists alike.
If you’re passionate about history, architecture, or cultural exploration, Nantou Ancient City is a must-visit destination in Shenzhen. Come and walk through the centuries, discovering the city’s vibrant past and timeless charm!
Leave a Comment