Visitors pose for photos at the Qu Family Compound in Zhaoyu Ancient City in Qixian county, Shanxi province on Feb 19, 2026. [Photo by Wu Xiaohui/chinadaily.com.cn]

Against a backdrop of vibrant lanterns and festive crowds, Zhaoyu Ancient City in Qixian county, Shanxi province, played host to a Chinese New Year celebration during the 2026 Spring Festival, immersing visitors in the storied heritage of the Great Tea Road.

Historically known as "Zhaoyu", Qixian county is recognized as a cradle of the Shanxi merchants and a pivotal node along the historic "Great Tea Road". Now designated a National Famous Historical and Cultural City, Zhaoyu Ancient City's history stretches back to the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534) and remains home to more than 1,000 impeccably preserved residences from the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911). However, the relentless passage of time had left many of these traditional courtyards in disrepair, with some structures facing the threat of collapse.

As tourism has continued to grow in recent years, a protection and renewal project for Zhaoyu Ancient City of Qixian county has steadily progressed, as well. The project includes upgrades to the ancient city's infrastructure and road systems, the restoration of cultural heritage sites, and the improvement of public spaces. Through careful renovation and adaptive reuse, the once-quiet ancient city is gradually coming back to life and has become an important window for showcasing Shanxi merchant culture and traditional New Year customs.

Visitors observe the craft of traditional sugar painting in Zhaoyu Ancient City in Qixian county, Shanxi province on Feb 19, 2026. [Photo by Wu Xiaohui/chinadaily.com.cn] 

Visitors savor authentic street snacks in Zhaoyu Ancient City in Qixian county, Shanxi province on Feb 19, 2026. [Photo by Wu Xiaohui/chinadaily.com.cn] 

Visitors explore the storied financial history of the Sanjinyuan draft bank in Zhaoyu Ancient City in Qixian county, Shanxi province on Feb 19, 2026. [Photo by Wu Xiaohui/chinadaily.com.cn] 

Visitors trace the historic trade and transport routes of the tea industry at a museum in Zhaoyu Ancient City in Qixian county, Shanxi province on Feb 19, 2026. [Photo by Wu Xiaohui/chinadaily.com.cn] 

Visitors pose for photos in Zhaoyu Ancient City in Qixian county, Shanxi province on Feb 19, 2026. [Photo by Wu Xiaohui/chinadaily.com.cn] 

The luminous spectacle of the Spring Festival Lantern Show draws crowds to Zhaoyu Ancient City in Qixian county, Shanxi province on Feb 17, 2026. [Photo by Wu Xiaohui/chinadaily.com.cn] 

Visitors enjoy a traditional face-changing performance amidst the festive glow at a New Year lantern festival in Zhaoyu Ancient City in Qixian county, Shanxi province on Feb 19, 2026. [Photo by Wu Xiaohui/chinadaily.com.cn]