Abstract:Based on field test of subway tunneling in Shenzhen,the stress distribution characteristics in working face are studied systematically and the distribution laws are explained. The sectional character of stress distribution in surrounding rock mass of shallow tunnel is proposed. The research can be concluded as follows:(1) For shallow tunnel,the earth pressure at arch points is not equal to overlying strata load;and (2) the pressure at arch foots is higher than their strength. The pore water pressure at arch is minus,which means soil is loose. Tensile stress is found in the pre-reinforced structure and self-support structures can exist in the overlying strata.