Stores run by Russians increased with the development of Butou District, the earliest urban district in Harbin. Most of them were grocery stores or watch repair centers, tablets written in Russian hanging high. Although named "China Street," the street exuded a sense of exoticness because most of the structures lined here reflected the European style, and were run by Russians.

In 1924, the China Street, designed and supervised by a Russian architect, was paved with square stones. At that time, there were numerous stores, pharmacies, restaurants, hotels, bars and ballrooms, including Daoli Branch of Churin Corporation and Modern Hotel that were operated by foreigners. These facilities were renowned in the Far East. In 1928, China Street was officially renamed "Central Avenue."

The passage of time has never dulled the luster of Central Avenue. In 1997, the government decided to change it into a car-free street, which has increased the avenue's charm and attracted more visitors ever since.