The rejuvenation and move over of the Beishi area of Tangzha ancient town is pushing ahead. When completed, it's expected to become a hip and lively cultural and retail destination and a hot spot for tourism. [Photo/ntfabu.com]

More than half the renovation of the Beishi area of Tangzha ancient town – located in Nantong city in East China's Jiangsu province – has now been finished, with the completed project expected to add vitality and vigor to the area when it is opened to the public during the National Day holiday this year.

That's according to reports in the local media, quoting the contractors, Tangzha Ancient Town Protection and Development Co Ltd.

Located to the north of Gao'an Street in Tangzha, the area covers nearly 40,000 square meters and is expected to become a popular hot spot for visitors – just like Nanshi and Xishi streets, as well as the Hedong area, which have also had renovation work done on them.

According to Liu Jun, a spokesperson for the contractors, the rejuvenated area is being positioned as an upgraded scenic leisure spot replete with Nantong features – integrating traditional folk culture, national industrial and commercial culture, the nongtang (narrow lane) culture, ancient architecture and light shows.

At present, the Beishi area is busy attracting investors through an innovative zero-rent incentive. Various kinds of merchants – including those opening handicraft stores, shops stocking time-honored retail brands, as well as local snack outlets, music bars, bookstores and cafes – are being invited to settle there.