"In the north, there stands the Chen Clan Academy, while in the south, there lies Julong Villag," goes a popular local saying. Julong Ancient Village, a residential complex dating back to the Qing Dynasty more than 120 years ago, is a rediscovered gem among the places of historic interest at Liwan. Following two years of renovation, this sleepy ancient village which was home to wealthy merchants and renowned men of letters in the Lingnan region, is taking hold as a culture-steeped tourist area on par with Wuzhen Township in Zhejiang Province. All this has been made possible by the government-planned and developer-executed "preservation-based redevelopment" initiative.

The 19 time-honoured buildings in the ancient village have been restored to their former glory, showcasing the beauty of Lingnan architecture.

Interior of a house at Julong Village

The renovated ancient street exudes elegance.

The ancient buildings are set to become tourist attractions.

Julong Village, tucked away deep in an alley between Longxi and Zhaocun on the Chongkou Street in Fangcun, was home to wealthy merchants of the Kuang clan during 1875-1908, the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty. More than 10 years ago, the village was listed as a city-level cultural heritage site. Two years ago, the renovation project kicked off. By now, the 19 ancient mansions with unique doors and Manchurian-style windows have all been restored to their former glory; the ancient village has received a facelift, exuding homely elegance.

The government will also allot RMB15 million to replace the structures around the village with landscaped sights. After the project is completed, the village will comprise four zones: the Core Historic Building Zone, the Folklore Showcase Zone, the Eco-leisure zone, and the Supporting Service Zone. The Core Historic Building Zone, in addition to the 19 ancient buildings, will include the Xiguan History Museum, the Qing Dynasty Architecture Museum, the Liwan Celebrity Waxworks Gallery, and the Thirteen Hangs Meseum.

"Julong Village is a gem. Until now it was buried under straws, but we've rediscovered it," said a Liwan District official. The government intends to bring investors for the improvement of the local infrastructure at the renovated Julong Village. Investors will be given property operating rights as a reward. (The End)