Wanchun Pavilion at Jingshan Park on the central axis of Beijing is illuminated at night in Beijing, China, August 31, 2024. /CFP
Recently, a surge of interest in ancient architecture has been observed among China's younger generation. Social media platforms and travel websites are abuzz with young people sharing their experience of exploring ancient Chinese buildings.
China has recognized 67,200 historic buildings, with Shanxi Province leading the count. The recent mid-autumn festival saw a significant influx of tourists to Shanxi.
During the three-day holiday, rental car orders for self-driving tours in Shanxi experienced a 16-percent increase compared to the Dragon Boat Festival holiday in June, according to data from a post-holiday travel summary released by Ctrip, a leading Chinese online travel agency.
In addition, the popularity of the game "Black Myth: Wukong" has driven a surge in visits to ancient buildings in Shanxi, such as Yungang Grottoes, Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, and Xuankong Temple (or Hanging Temple). All of them are featured in the game as backdrops. Data also reveals that nearly 50 percent of the ticket orders for these scenic spots were made by individuals in their 20s and 30s.
A popsicle shaped like the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda in Shuozhou, Shanxi Province, north China, with the pagoda in the background. /CFP
Meanwhile, traditional cultural activities such as lantern exhibitions, fireworks, moon viewing and garden tours in Chinese traditional clothing were popular choices for visitors during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
These activities, typically held at ancient architectural sites, not only allow tourists to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of traditional festivals but also bring vitality to the tourism industry in the areas where these ancient buildings are located.
Tourists visit a traditional garden wearing Hanfu, or Chinese traditional clothing in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, east China, June 12, 2024. /CFP
Chinese architecture has maintained its distinctive characteristics for thousands of years, forming an integral part of Chinese civilization. Some historical and cultural blocks have also integrated new technologies with ancient buildings, allowing young people to fully imagine ancient life during their visits.
Experts suggest that the interest of young people in ancient building tourism represents an innovative practice for the protection and revitalization of architectural heritage. This is because ancient architecture contains rich information on aesthetics, technical knowledge and cultural customs.
Aerial photo of an octagonal hall at Daxiangguo Temple, Kaifeng City, Henan Province, central China. /CFP
This summer, to enrich the supply of cultural and tourism products, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism has recommended 82 rural tourism routes across China. This initiative guides visitors to explore villages rich in ancient architectural resources, stimulating the development of the local tourism industry.
"Visitors can enhance their interest and passion for traditional culture while experiencing the craftsmanship and culture of ancient Chinese architecture," said Lyu Pinjing, vice president of the China Academy of Art, in an interview with Guangming Daily.
In 2024, China's tourism industry is experiencing rapid growth, becoming one of the world's largest domestic travel markets and also emerging as a major destination for international tourists.