Cultural tour examines Beijing's preservation and renewal

More than 20 participants, including international students from Tsinghua University, Beijing Language and Culture University, and the University of International Business and Economics, as well as members from media organizations, took part in a cultural tour in Beijing's Xicheng district on Friday.

The tour was part of a series of cultural consumption events centered on Gulou Xidajie, or Drum Tower West Street.

The day trip included a guided tour examining Beijing's history and culture, highlighting the Beijing Central Axis and its role as the northern end of the Grand Canal, both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Participants also enjoyed live performances, including excerpts from the Kunqu Opera classic The Peony Pavilion and pipa (Chinese lute) renditions of traditional Chinese folk songs.

Drum Tower West Street has been restored to reflect its historical charm, featuring heritage sites such as a wharf dating to the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). The area offers several "Citywalk" routes for visitors to explore.

Since its launch in 2022, the street's annual cultural consumption events have attracted new businesses, provided authentic cultural experiences, and served as a platform for Xicheng district to showcase its achievements in historical preservation and urban renewal.

This year, the initiative began online on Aug 15, encouraging visitors to explore the area's cultural and commercial venues and share their experiences on the internet.

Offline events, including a market with live music and traditional opera, are also underway, along with the upcoming third International Monodrama Festival at the Drum Tower West Theatre.