On a weekend stroll along Xinmin Street in Changchun, century-old buildings mingle with modern life. This “China Historical and Cultural Street” was faithfully restored to its original state so historic structures feel less like frozen specimens and more like places you can touch and inhabit.

Nearby, the Changchun Water Culture Ecological Garden blends industrial remains with cultural programming, turning century-old waterworks into an art space. During the event, weathered factory halls became immersive theatre stages and plaza hosted guqin (a traditional Chinese musical instrument) performances.

The city is protecting and reusing immovable relics and historic buildings, linking attractions into themed routes and staging arts events that give residents and visitors an immersive taste of Changchun’s culture and charm.