The Shatoujiao Border Special Administrative Zone, commonly known as Zhongying Street, has seen a dramatic surge in visitors this year. It is a favored spot for family trips, educational tours, and group travel — particularly during holiday seasons.

As of Sept. 5, cumulative visitor numbers at Zhongying Street had exceeded 10 million, reaching this milestone two months earlier than last year.

Authorities attribute this growth to rising tourism demand and a more convenient travel experience, facilitated by measures implemented by the Shatoujiao Border Inspection Station.

Since early last year, the station has introduced an online application system for a single-use Shatoujiao Border Special Administrative Zone Permit. The new process requires fewer documents, shortens processing time, streamlines procedures, and eliminates the need for in-person certificate collection.

This year, the station has optimized the online application service by adding a smart ID card OCR (optical character recognition) feature, further cutting application time by more than 60%.

For tour groups, study groups, family visitors, and senior travelers, it has added "speedy windows" for document processing and "green channels" for faster passage.

On-site improvements — such as optimized channel layouts, the deployment of mobile inspection terminals, and additional temporary manual inspection counters during peak travel periods — have also been introduced to expedite crossings.

Located in Shatoujiao Subdistrict, the four-meter-wide street holds deep historical significance. 

Today, Zhongying Street is a bustling tourist destination lined with duty-free shops and stores selling local specialties. Visitors can explore the Zhongying Street History Museum, take photos at historical landmarks such as an ancient well and a large bell, or simply stroll along the picturesque coastline and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.