Discover the timeless hidden gem of Jingkou Village

According to historical records, Jingkou Village (迳口村) in Guangming District dates back to the late Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279), when the Huang clan relocated from Fujian Province and settled here. Walking through the village today feels like time has slowed, as local villagers sit leisurely at their doorsteps, selling homegrown vegetables or gathering for card games.

The old buildings and traditional homes in the village are well preserved, exuding rustic charm. Though weathered by time, the ancestral hall of the Huang clan, designed in the symmetrical and meticulous Lingnan architectural style, features intricately carved eaves and rooftops.

A view from Jingkou Village. Photos from WeChat account “深圳派”

The Jingkou Opera Stage maybe small in size, but carries great presence especially during important festivals. According to senior villagers, it comes alive with drumming and cheering, drawing residents and visitors alike to watch vivid performances.

The village’s historic water well served as the main water source for locals for centuries. Simple in appearance and less used today, it remains a cherished spot where villagers draw water, wash vegetables and share neighborhood chatter. Nearby stands Jingkou’s iconic watchtower nestled beneath the shade of surrounding trees. Its weathered walls bear silent witness to its long role of guarding the community.

The ancestral hall of the Huang clan in Jingkou Village.

Though compact, Jingkou Village offers numerous inviting spots to explore. The Jingkou Community Park features an expansive lawn perfect for camping, ideal for family outings on a restful afternoon. Nearby Lilin Park is an orchard treasure, with branches overflowing with juicy lychees during the recently ended lychee season, followed by jackfruit, longan and wampee, serving as a favorite destination for families eager to enjoy fruit-picking adventures. A short stroll along a mountain path leads visitors to a grassland paradise surrounded by rolling hills.

In recent years, a wave of young residents and creative entrepreneurs have been attracted to the village by its laid-back atmosphere and affordable rents. Their arrivals injected fresh vitality into the ancient village. Among the newcomers, Stay Cafe, renovated from an old house in a Japanese-inspired minimalist style, has become a must-visit spot in Jingkou. The cafe, run by an experienced barista who previously co-founded five coffee shops in Nanshan District, is known for its signature lattes adorned with adorable latte art, as well as its cold brews and Americanos.

Local villagers sell homegrown vegetables in Jingkou Village. 

The Taoyuan Cultural Center features a pottery workshop, coffee tasting experiences, and traditional crafts exhibitions.

Dubbed “one of the most underrated century-old villages” in Shenzhen, Jingkou Village invites visitors to unwind at a leisurely place, encouraging exploration with little planning before visiting.

Getting there: Metro Line 6 to Guangming Street Station (光明大街站), Exit B; then take a taxi