Discover Xin'An County Yamen: A Hidden Gem in Shenzhen

Where to Find It

Nestled in the heart of Nantou Peninsula in Shenzhen’s Nanshan District, Xin'An County Yamen sits at 96 Zhongshan East Street. This historic site is easy to reach: take the metro to Nantou Station (Line 12) or hop on buses M484 or M587. If you’re walking from Nantou Sky Bridge, just head north for a few minutes—you’ll spot the ancient walls peeking between modern buildings.

A Fortress Turned Time Capsule

Xin'An County Yamen isn’t just old—it’s a survivor. Built in 1394 during China’s Ming Dynasty, this place started as a military hub to protect coastal towns. Later, it became the heart of Xin’An County, which once ruled over Hong Kong, Macau, and parts of today’s Guangdong province! Imagine officials ruling an area larger than modern cities from this tiny yamen (government office).

The city walls are still standing, stretching 680 meters east-west and 500 meters north-south. Walk along the base, and you’ll feel like you’re tracing the footsteps of soldiers who guarded here. The south gate is the star attraction: a 10-meter-wide arch carved with the characters “Ning Nan” (“Pacify the South”). Though the city tower is gone, the gate’s solid stone structure whispers stories of battles and bans.

Why It’s a History Buff’s Dream

This spot isn’t just about old stones—it’s a living museum of Shenzhen’s past. After a 1730-year-long history, the site was reborn in the late 1600s when the Qing government rebuilt Xin’An County here. During the Opium War in 1840, locals even fought British troops from these walls! Today, restored buildings like the Xin’An Prison, Haifang Office (coastal defense), and Wen Tianxiang Temple (a hero against invaders) paint a vivid picture of life in a frontier county.

Don’t miss the county yamen itself—a reminder of when this was the political center. Nearby, the Guandi Temple (God of War) and Dongguan Guild Hall show how culture and trade shaped this melting pot.

What to See and Do

  • Climb the Walls: Only parts of the north and south walls remain, but they offer great photo ops. The south gate is perfectly framed for Instagram—just avoid the noon sun!
  • Step Back in Time: Wander through restored buildings like the opium den (yes, they recreated one!) and the pawn shop. They look tiny compared to modern shops, but they’re packed with detail.
  • Visit the Temples: The Wen Tianxiang Shrine honors a patriotic poet, while the Guandi Temple feels like stepping into a historical drama. Both are quiet spots to escape the city buzz.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Best Time: Morning light makes the ancient walls glow, and afternoons are cooler for exploring indoor exhibits.
  • Food Nearby: After your history fix, grab dim sum or stir-fried noodles at the stalls near Nantou Old Street. Ask locals for their favorite spots!
  • Guided Stories: Join a free tour (check the schedule online) to hear tales of Zheng Chenggong’s raids and the Qing Dynasty’s “Sea Ban”—when people here were forced to flee inland.

Why It’s Worth Your Time

Xin'An County Yamen isn’t just a relic—it’s a window into how Shenzhen transformed from a military outpost to a global megacity. Unlike flashy skyscrapers, this site lets you touch layered history: from Ming bricks to Qing plaques to modern restorations. Bring comfy shoes, a curiosity for stories, and get ready to see Shenzhen’s soul—not its glitter.

Fun fact: The name “Xin’An” means “renewal for safety”—a wish that still resonates today!