The hamlet of Wulin in rural Fujian province hosts a thicket of ancient foreign-style buildings, leading local authorities to develop the settlement into an attraction. [Photo provided to China Daily]

In addition to restoring historical buildings, artisan workshops, hotels, a tourism service center, leisure facilities and gardens have been developed.

"These businesses will offer more choices for tourists and jobs for locals," Cai says.

Visitors can enjoy coffee at distinctive cafes, watch traditional operas and otherwise experience Wulin's intangible cultural heritage.

Cultural celebrations were held during the Spring Festival holiday this year, and more will be staged in the future, authorities say.

Wulin has launched an initiative to recruit 99 leaders from various fields of society, such as government officials, tourism players and cultural scholars.

They'll be invited to run the historical building cluster and apply their expertise to Wulin, helping it to become a leading cultural and tourism destination.

The hamlet of Wulin in rural Fujian province hosts a thicket of ancient foreign-style buildings, leading local authorities to develop the settlement into an attraction. [Photo provided to China Daily]