Hidden within the bustling city of Shenzhen lies Nantou, a place where time seems to stand still. Nantou, also known as Nam Tau, is an ancient walled city with a rich history. The city itself dates back an astounding 1,700 years. It stands as a testament to a time long before Shenzhen’s skyscrapers. Nantou served as the administrative center of Xin’an County. It played a crucial role in shaping the region’s history.
Nantou was originally a walled city. It faced Qianhai Bay and held a significant position on the South China sea route. It acted as a guardian to the Pearl River and Guangzhou. The city’s strategic importance is evident in its protective walls. These were originally built to defend against Japanese pirates. The walls themselves tell a silent story of resilience and strength.
Nantou holds a deeper historical significance. After the first Opium War, it was within Nantou’s walls, in a small government building, that Hong Kong Island was ceded to the British Empire. This event marked a turning point in the region’s history. It forever linked Nantou to the story of Hong Kong.
Today, entering Nantou is like stepping back in time. The South Gate, located near the intersection of Shennan Avenue and Nanxin Road, welcomes you through an old stone-walled tunnel. This tunnel, a Tau Tun, acts as a portal. It transports you from the modern chaos of Shenzhen to the tranquil heart of Nantou. As you pass through the gates of Nantou, a vibrant scene unfolds. Street vendors, pedestrians, shop fronts, and restaurants create a lively atmosphere. This is a taste of authentic Chinese life, a far cry from the neon lights and car horns of modern Shenzhen.
While bustling, Nantou offers a different kind of energy. The shops are small, family-owned businesses. The restaurants are tiny, hole-in-the-wall establishments. It’s a world away from the brand names and international chains that dominate other parts of Shenzhen. Here, you’ll experience a more traditional, intimate side of China. A place where history and modernity intertwine. A place where the echoes of the past still resonate within the vibrant tapestry of the present. This is Nantou, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.