Preserving Ancient and Vanishing Villages in China

In China, ancient villages are facing abandonment and decay as younger generations flock to urban areas. Many of these villages retain a sense of simplicity and have been less impacted by modernization. Examples such as Sandhu village in Yangtuan, Shenxi province, showcase the remaining historical and cultural elements preserved amidst empty homes and dilapidated buildings. Efforts have been made to safeguard these treasures through initiatives like the state protection list, which has inscribed over 8,000 traditional villages for conservation. Additionally, a renting and renovating platform has been established to refurbish vacant houses into modern facilities like bed and breakfasts, homestays, and art studios. These measures aim to preserve cultural inheritance and advance rural vitalization, while also attracting tourists and boosting local economies.