In 2009, local authorities launched a two-year project to restore the Huizhou Ancient City. Guided by descriptions recorded in local chronicles from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), workers rebuilt parts of the former Huizhou prefectural government complex and restored landmarks such as ancient city walls and bell and drum towers.

　　Local tourism operators have rolled out immersive performances in the small historical town to attract visitors. A popular one is a nighttime performance staged within the ancient Huizhou prefectural government compound.

　　Drawing on local history and folklore, the performance allows audiences to move through the venue alongside performers to offer an immersive cultural experience.

　　Fish lanterns, a long-standing local tradition, have become both a cultural icon and a commercial success. Fish lantern-themed parades are now regular features at scenic sites, and souvenir shops report strong sales of fish lanterns.

　　Tourists visit a night market at Huizhou Ancient City in Huangshan, east China's Anhui Province, Oct. 2, 2025. (Photo by Shi Yalei/Xinhua)

　　Local authorities have partnered with leading internet companies to develop digital intellectual properties based on the fish lantern and have also introduced more than 100 cultural and creative products in recent years.

　　"Revitalizing cultural heritage is key to continuously attracting visitors and integrating cultural and tourism resources with the tourism economy," said Wu Jiong, head of the county culture, tourism and sport bureau.

　　The county has also incorporated traditional crafts into tourism offerings to tap into the growing study-tour market.