Beijing, October 8 (Youth.cn) - Photo taken in Xiadianzi Ancient Village in Shiyan, Hubei Province on October 7th. Xiadianzi ancient village is one of the most ancient villages in China. It was built in the Tang Dynasty with over 1300 years of history. An ancient street was built across the village and near mountains and rivers. The ancient street is 2000 meters long while the ancient village has 50,000 square meters’ surface area. It is one of the most complete historical sites in north-western Hubei Province. During the late Qing Dynasty and the early Republic period, it became a flourishing place with countless stores. Almost every local households at that time engaged in their family business. It was also a gathering place for businessmen in Sichuan and Shaanxi. However, some of architectures were destroyed throughout the time.
Since the end of 2014, the local authority started to restore the ancient village while keeping its original appearance. Totally 220 architectures have been restored in this decade. Archway, hundred-step ladder, bookstore and other infrastructures and tourist spots have been built to stimulate local tourism. Moreover, the historical ancient architectural group has been renovated.
Nowadays, stores can be seen in the ancient street where intangible cultural activities are performed. Handicrafts made by folk artisans are shown on architecture walls. The scenic spot attracts many tourists and revivals rural tourism. Local people increase their incomes by developing tourism projects. Photo/VCG