Xun County Revives Ancient Liyang City Through Slow Travel

HEBI, China, Oct. 01, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Xun County, a historic and culturally rich county in Hebi, Henan province, is experiencing a renaissance through the promotion of "slow travel," a trend that encourages visitors to immerse themselves in local heritage and natural beauty at a leisurely pace. This National Day holiday, Xun County has transformed its ancient Liyang City into a vibrant cultural tourism destination, blending millennia-old traditions with modern attractions.

Liyang City, known for its historical significance, is home to the Xun County section of the Grand Canal and the Liyang Warehouse, both listed as world cultural heritage sites. The area boasts a unique blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks, with mountains and rivers intertwined seamlessly with the modern urban landscape. The county is also the birthplace of several national-level intangible cultural heritage traditions, including Ni Gugu (clay whistles), Daping Opera, folk shehuo performances, and a grand temple fair.

To engage younger audiences and integrate these intangible heritage elements into modern life, Liyang City has introduced a range of youth-oriented attractions. These include China-chic interactive activities and technology-driven light shows. During the National Day holiday, the city rolled out a series of distinctive live outdoor performances, showcasing the charm of intangible heritage and the splendor of the ancient city. These performances feature creative choreography, integrated technology, and immersive interaction, providing visitors with a rich and engaging experience.

The county has also opened a cluster of new cultural spaces collectively known as the "Twelve Cultural Spaces of Liyang." These venues include a Ni Gugu heritage workshop, a Wanfu tiger fabric craft studio, a Canal Granary memory museum, a shadow puppetry workshop, and a folk performance theater. Together, these spaces weave history, intangible heritage, and hands-on experiences into a cohesive product lineup, offering visitors a comprehensive exploration of the county's rich cultural heritage.

Xun County retains the depth of a millennia-old town while radiating modern vitality. Visitors can admire masterful heritage crafts, browse contemporary China-chic artworks, watch dazzling light projections, and take in autumn scenery steeped in ancient charm. The county has successfully transformed its deep history into tangible, experiential tourism products, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in both time-honored culture and the energy of modern tourism.

In summary, Xun County's strategic approach to cultural tourism is revitalizing the ancient Liyang City, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a slow-paced, immersive travel experience.