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At the gateway to China’s resistance, war scars remain as life blooms

2026-08-01 14:54   Xinhua

  Wanping's renewal has also created opportunities for new businesses. The Lugou Bridge's iconic stone lions have been reinterpreted into popular cultural souvenirs, including refrigerator magnets and desk ornaments. Alongside the Green Porcelain House, the town now hosts 26 new stores, including cafés, restaurants, bookstores, souvenir stores and creative studios.

  In December 2025, Liu Yanhong, a representative inheritor of the Linglong pillow-making technique, an intangible cultural heritage from Fengtai District in Beijing, opened a studio in Wanping. Inspired by Lugou Bridge, she designed a pillow featuring its stone lions and the famous moonlit scenery, with the ear hole of the pillow resembling the bridge's arch.

  "At first, I only intended to commemorate Lugou Bridge, yet I never expected it would be so popular," said Liu, adding that integrating traditional handmade crafts into the historic town infuses it with unique charm.

  According to Shen, instead of introducing chain stores or large commercial complexes, the town chose to attract cultural businesses that reflect its identity, creating spaces where visitors are willing to slow down and stay. In the first half of 2026, Wanping received about three million visitors.

  Standing on the city wall today, visitors can see not only Lugou Bridge quietly stretching over the shimmering Yongding River, but also high-speed trains speeding by in the distance.

  "With the land remaining safe and sound, Wanping continues to embrace new changes," said Shen. "Next year marks the 90th anniversary of the July 7th Incident. While preserving the town's historical heritage, we will introduce more cultural festivals, marathons and other events, and work to develop Wanping into a global memorial site for peace."

  

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