China's "city of future" preserves tradition, nostalgia
Release time:2024-05-07 21:37:00
XIONG'AN, Hebei Province, April 2 (Xinhua) -- As Xiong'an, China's "city of the future," swiftly ere 。
XIONG'AN, Hebei Province, April 2 (Xinhua) -- As Xiong'an, China's "city of the future," swiftly erects new apartments, schools and hospitals, a lesser-known effort is unfolding in tandem: the preservation of historical artifacts, ranging from revered trees and weathered bricks to traditional cultural events. Despite relocating to a new residence in a modern complex five years ago, Li Qiuhe still frequents a centuries-old locust tree in his former village of Xiaowangying, a cherished symbol of his roots. "It shaded our yard, offering solace to my family throughout the seasons," Li recalled. "It holds deep memories of our childhood and the village we once called home." In April 2017, China decided to establish Xiong'an New Area in north China's Hebei Province, part of a strategy to promote the coordinated development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. Xiong'an was designed to be a smart and livable city that is innovative, green and free from "urban ills." Around 120,000 residents like Li have been relocated from their old villages to new urban communities in Xiong'an. Within a 15-minute walk, amenities like bus stations, schools and elderly activity centers now enhance their lives with convenience and vibrancy. Li's tree is among 2,360-plus "nostalgia points" registered by Xiong'an since 2018 when the local government initiated an effort to honor its past while constructing a new city. Amidst extensive construction, ancient trees stand undisturbed, while historic buildings and archways remain intact. Li Taozhu, a former resident of Xiaowang Village who now lives in another urban community in Xiong'an, often takes his grandchildren back to the "nostalgia point" in his village. The spot is marked by several trees and the Temple of Guan Yu, an ancient general known for his loyalty and bravery in battles. "I reminisce about my childhood memories of climbing jujube and locust trees and visiting the ancient temple," said Li Taozhu. "After all, this is where our ancestors once lived and we should not forget our past, even as we enjoy a better life." In a storage facility dedicated to preserving nostalgic artifacts, not only are traditional fishing and farming tools unique to the Baiyangdian Lake stored, but also a considerable number of intricately carved old wooden doors and windows, stone pillars and bluestone slabs used in traditional house construction. Like many rapidly urbanizing areas, Xiong'an grapples with the balance between modernity and tradition. The city's architecture incorporates elements of ancient porcelain, an ancient seven-stringed zither native to China, and historic seals. Additionally, traditional rural markets continue to thrive, attracting locals who cherish their cultural roots. "In these markets, we find everything we need -- from fresh produce and meats to household essentials and clothing," said Li Taozhu. "It's a cherished tradition; even elderly women make the journey by bus to partake." Xiong'an also embraces digital preservation, documenting old trees, houses and the daily lives of the local residents via video, photographs, virtual reality and other means, according to Chen Hui, deputy director of the publicity authorities of Xiong'an. He Youshun, a 56-year-old shutterbug and former relocation office worker, bears witness to these shifts. Over the past seven years, he has captured over 100,000 photos encapsulating nostalgia and changes, ranging from quaint village scenes to time-honored crafts and vibrant cultural gatherings. "I hope that more photography enthusiasts and photographers will join our shooting team and record more of the past," said He. "Documenting the construction of Xiong'an New Area is both an obligation and a responsibility for us photographers."
(Editor:Wang Su)
Related articles
Zendaya's Met Gala style: Her biggest and boldest fashion statements so far
Zendaya has always made a splash when at the annual fashion event The Met Gala held in New York City2024-05-07They cost up to £30. But which posh lip glosses are worth the dosh?
Lip gloss is back, but not as you know it. Forget the sticky gloop that acted like flypaper for your2024-05-07European Union official urges G7 to step up air defense for Ukraine and expand Iran sanctions
CAPRI, Italy (AP) — The European Union’s top diplomat urged Group of Seven foreign ministers on Thur2024-05-07Real Madrid adapts to Champions League needs: Shock and awe one week, armadillo defense the next
BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — Antonio Rudiger stared down the goalkeeper, took a deep breath, and drilled2024-05-07- Travis Kelce partied the night away in Miami following Sunday's Formula One Grand Prix without girlf2024-05-07
Israeli soccer facing Palestinian calls for action by FIFA at annual congress
GENEVA (AP) — Calls for action against Israel in international soccer because of the conflict with H2024-05-07
atest comment