For international travelers who love to explore cities on foot, Harbin's Central Street and Guangzhou's Beijing Road offer two distinctive yet equally rewarding urban experiences—each reflecting the history, culture, and rhythm of its city.
Central Street (Photo: Xinhua)
In Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Central Street (also known as Zhongyang Street) is a lively pedestrian boulevard stretching 1,450 meters. Built in 1898, it features 65 well-preserved historic buildings in Renaissance, Baroque, Art Nouveau, Eclectic, and Classical Western styles. Protected since 1986 and later converted into a pedestrian zone, it's perfect for leisurely walks, café hopping, and experiencing Harbin's unique European-style charm.
Beijing Road (Photo: Guangzhou Yuexiu Fabu)
In Guangzhou, south China's Guangdong Province, Beijing Road has been the city's heart for over 2,200 years. Beneath the modern pavement lie ancient road ruins, while above, bright lights, bustling crowds, traditional shops, and trendy eateries create a lively atmosphere—especially from late afternoon into evening. Nearby highlights like Dafo Temple and the Nanyue King Museum add to the rich historical and cultural experience.
Whether you're drawn to Harbin's European elegance or Guangzhou's living layers of history, these two pedestrian streets offer memorable options for discovering China's cities at street level.
Editor's Note: This series "From snowy landscapes to subtropical wonders: What China Travel has to offer" invites you to explore the rich diversity of China's landscapes and cultural experiences, focusing on the unique destinations in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province and south China's Guangdong Province.
From the snow-covered wonderlands and historic railway towns of the northeast to the subtropical water towns, European-style streets, and world-class theme parks of the south, each location tells a unique story and provides immersive experiences for travelers. Whether exploring centuries-old heritage, marveling at architectural diversity, or enjoying seasonal festivals and interactive attractions, this series encourages you to discover the unexpected and memorable facets of China, inviting you to embark on a journey that is both enriching and inspiring.
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Author | Liu Lingzhi
Editor | James Campion, Shen He
