The construction of the Central Street began in 1898. It gained its present name in the late 1920s. Originally, the street was opened up by carts used to transport railway supplies. In May, 1924, the Central Street was covered with square stones according to a Russian engineer's design. Since then it has become a rendezvous of numerous foreign shops, hotels, and bars. Russian leather, British woolen cloth, French perfume, German medicine and plenty more can be found in this fashionable street. In 1997, Harbin government designated the street as a pedestrian street, which added great charm to this enchanting section.

    Nowadays, with a total length of 1,450 meters (1,586 yards), the Central Street features a variety of European style buildings. In total, there are 71 buildings, some of which are replicas reflecting the European style of architecture. Examples of the Renaissance through to the Baroque Period as well as the Eclecticism to the Modern School can be found in 13 of these buildings.

    The Central Street is a junction where both Harbin's modern and historical civilizations can be seen. It interprets the city perfectly and has witnessed the most brilliant European cultural development for 300 years.