Shenyang Middle Street

Introducing Shenyang Middle Street

Zhongjie Street, located in Shenyang, Liaoning Province, is China's first commercial pedestrian street, one of China's top ten famous commercial streets, one of the first national demonstration streets for "100 cities, 10,000 stores without counterfeit goods," and the longest commercial pedestrian street in mainland China to date.

It was the earliest commercial center in Shenyang. From 1625 (the fifth year of Tianqi in the Ming Dynasty and the tenth year of Tianming in the Later Jin Dynasty) to 1631 (the fourth year of Chongzhen in the Ming Dynasty and the fifth year of Tiancong in the Later Jin Dynasty), the Later Jin Dynasty rebuilt and expanded the brick city built by the Ming Dynasty. According to the saying in Chinese history that "the ancestors are on the left, the community is on the right, and the market is facing the back", the original two "cross"-shaped streets were rebuilt into four "well"-shaped streets, namely today's Shenyang Road, Zhongjie Road, Chaoyang Street, and Zhengyang Street.

At that time, Zhongjie Road was called Siping Street, with a bell tower and a drum tower built on the east and west sides.

The street is 579.3 meters long and 11.7 meters wide. The word "Zhongjie" was inscribed by the famous calligrapher Li Xingchen. Today, Zhongjie has become a pedestrian commercial street in Shenyang. Shops are lined up on both sides of the street, business is booming, and it looks prosperous!

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate monsoon climate, suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

long time

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Shenyang Middle Street

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Shenyang Middle Street is one of the oldest and most famous commercial streets in Shenyang. It reflects the city’s rich history, with a blend of traditional Chinese and modern influences. The street is lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, offering a glimpse into Shenyang’s cultural and commercial evolution.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Shenyang Middle Street is located in the city center, easily accessible by metro (Shenyang Middle Street Station on Line 1), bus, or taxi. It's also within walking distance from many other key attractions in Shenyang, making it a central hub for tourists.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Shenyang Middle Street is open all day, with most shops and attractions operating from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the day for shopping or in the evening when the street is beautifully lit and bustling with people.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to visit Shenyang Middle Street. It is a public area, and you can explore it freely. Costs are only associated with shopping or dining at the various establishments along the street.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No need to book tickets in advance as the street is open for public access. However, if you plan to visit specific events or attractions in the area, it is advisable to check availability and book in advance during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes about 2-3 hours to explore Shenyang Middle Street, depending on your pace and how much shopping or dining you wish to do.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights include the historic architecture along the street, the Shenyang Middle Street Mosque, and the wide variety of shops selling local products and souvenirs. The street is also known for its traditional Chinese restaurants and street food vendors.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are not widely available for the street itself, but some local tour companies may offer guided tours of the surrounding area. Audio guides are not typically offered but may be available for specific historical sites nearby.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Best photography spots include the historical buildings along the street, particularly the Shenyang Middle Street Mosque, and the lively street scenes, especially during the evening when the lights add to the atmosphere.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking along the street from one end to the other to take in the historical architecture. Stop by the shops for souvenirs and enjoy a meal at one of the traditional restaurants. Consider visiting nearby attractions such as the Zhaoling Tomb or Shenyang Imperial Palace after exploring the street.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Shenyang Middle Street is especially charming at night, with its street lights creating a beautiful ambiance. While there are no specific light shows, the illuminated shops and buildings make it a lovely place to visit in the evening.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The street can get quite crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are typically weekday mornings and early afternoons.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Shenyang Middle Street is equipped with public restrooms, food stalls, and a variety of shops. There are also cafes and restaurants where you can take a break and enjoy some local cuisine. Rest areas are available in some of the shopping centers along the street.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The street is generally accessible for elderly and children, though it may get crowded at times, making it less ideal for those with mobility challenges. Some stores and restaurants may be more easily accessible than others, depending on the building design.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted along Shenyang Middle Street. Credit cards may also be accepted in larger stores or restaurants.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are numerous local restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors along Shenyang Middle Street. These offer a range of traditional Chinese dishes, snacks, and international cuisines.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some restaurants along the street. Halal food is also available, particularly at establishments catering to the Muslim community.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a number of hotels nearby, ranging from budget to high-end options. Popular choices include local guesthouses and international hotel chains located within walking distance of the street.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include Shenyang Imperial Palace, Zhaoling Tomb, and the Liaoning Provincial Museum. These sites are within a short distance of Shenyang Middle Street and can be easily combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are numerous souvenir shops along the street selling items such as traditional Chinese crafts, clothing, tea, and local snacks. Popular souvenirs include silk products, local artwork, and traditional Chinese decorations.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Shenyang Middle Street, you can take a taxi, metro, or bus to continue your trip to other nearby attractions or to reach the train station/airport. The area is well-connected by public transportation.