Guiyang city advances integration of commerce with culture

The Xinyin 1950 cultural and creative district opened on May 25, at once transforming the old Guizhou Xinhua Printing Factory – located in Guiyang, capital of Southwest China's Guizhou province – into a vibrant commercial hub.

The opening day attracted thousands of residents and tourists, marking an exciting new chapter in Guiyang's commercial scene.

Abandoned due to the operator relocating elsewhere, the factory was revitalized by Yunyan district and the Guizhou Publishing Group in 2022.

The Xinyin 1950 project combines urban exhibition halls, quality dining, markets and flagship stores while preserving the original industrial structure. It now serves as a cultural exhibition space and a diverse consumer venue.

Xinyin 1950 is widely said to represent Guiyang's urban renewal efforts, blending history with modern commerce and tourism. As such, the city is actively promoting the combining of historical culture with commercial districts, fostering new consumer experiences.

In 2021, the renovation of Huaxi Shizi Street began, preserving historical elements while introducing themed alleys. The Qingyun Road Pedestrian Street features the Old City Gate and the Nine Gates and Four Pavilions – merging past and present to attract visitors.

Elsewhere, Nanming district's Cao Zhuangyuan Street highlights Wuzhuangyuan martial arts champion Cao Weicheng's legacy, while offering insights into Guizhou's cultural heritage and performances. Meanwhile, Yunyan district's Taiping Road includes cultural exhibits like Kaixin Mahua and Taiping Eye, revitalizing historical sites.

What's more, Guiyang is also encouraging new business models. Since 2022, 193 new first stores have opened in Guizhou, with 156 in Guiyang, boosting the local economy and drawing more visitors.