Located in the downtown area of Fangxian County, Xiguan Ancient Street was an essential transportation hub for the salt businesses in ancient times, attracting many merchants to set up a trading market there. Built in the Tang Dynasty (618-907), the thoroughfare reached its heyday during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties.

An aerial view shows Xiguan Ancient Street in Fangxian County, Shiyan City, Hubei Province. (Photos: CFP)

The 1,680-meter-long street retains many ancient buildings featuring the architectural styles of the Ming and Qing dynasties. In order to protect this ancient street and its relics, local authorities launched a renovation project in 2017. After extensive renovation work, the street has been reshaped into a brand-new historical and cultural block.

The block is divided into two functional sections. One is a 680-meter-long new street that features a tourist experience area, while the other is a 1,000-meter-long old street that houses relics and showcases traditional folk culture. By restoring the ancient architecture and creating modern tourism facilities, the block offers an ideal blend of history, culture, commerce and tourism.

Tourists visit Xiguan Ancient Street in Fangxian County, Shiyan City, Hubei Province.

More than 20 different kinds of intangible cultural heritage are presented through 3D, VR and other advanced technologies in the block, such as wood carving art, movable type printing, yellow rice wine-making skills and dough figurine art. Over 200 events have been held there to provide the opportunity for visitors to gain a better understanding of the local history and culture.

The newly restored Xiguan Ancient Street manages to retain both its historical and cultural value while integrating cafes, restaurants, bars, workshops and other modern leisure spots. In addition, the ancient street attracts many artists and craftspeople to gather there and offer fascinating folk performances and immersive experiences for visitors.

Traditional folk performances take place at Xiguan Ancient Street in Fangxian County, Shiyan City, Hubei Province.

Nowadays, this ancient street serves as a "street museum" which houses many historical buildings and relics. But at night, the street itself turns into a popular market decorated with colorful neon lights, attracting tens of thousands of visitors to Shiyan City, Hubei Province every year.