An artist's impression of Bencha ancient town. [Photo/WeChat account: dream8086]

Bencha ancient town in Rudong, Nantong is taking shape after seven months of construction and is expected to start operations during this year's National Day holiday, local media outlets reported.

Bencha was a national pilot town for reform and opening up, boasting a profound culture and history. The development of the ancient town is meant to improve local residents' living environment and to make full use of its cultural resources to boost the town's tourism industry, said Cai Jianju, deputy Party secretary of the town.

The construction of the spot, which covers an area of 80 hectares, began in September 2020, receiving 1.2 billion yuan ($184.75 million) in investment.  

The project has focused on the restoration of local buildings and historical sites to retain their original styles.

"The slab stones were dug out of the old street and numbered. They will be laid back in order later," said Chen Zhiming, supervisor of the project.

In addition, modern renovations, such as a commercial complex and facilities for light shows, are also underway, adding more functions to the ancient town.

More than 50 lanes stretching across the area will feature different characteristics, including Buddhism culture, tea art, and traditional Chinese paintings.

"We also encourage local residents to participate in the management of the town," said Cai. "Tourists can experience the authentic culture of the thousand-year town through talks with locals."

Wang Peng, a local retiree from the postal department, said that he plans to create a place in his yard to host free stamp and coin exhibitions for tourists.