China is returning to its architectural roots and hopes that restoring ancient buildings will give an extra boost to domestic tourism.Wei Xiaoan, one of China’s leading tourism planners, said, "The government is investing more than ever before on restoring traditional cities. We Chinese used to look down on our own traditional things, but people’s outlooks have broadened now, and we value tradition more."
According to the national tourism bureau domestic tourism revenue jumped 12% in the first half of 2009.
Wei Xiaoan said that after decades of neglect or destruction, the current restoration effort reveals a new pride in China’s historical past. He is employed as researcher at the Chinese Tourism Academy and head of the China Alliance of Ancient Cities, Towns and Villages.
USA Today reports that although the restorations do not meet with the approval of everyone generally they are seen as recreating China’s amazing historical past.