In China, it has become increasingly hard to find ancient villages that remain relatively untouched by the ugly rush of modern development or the sticky lure of tourism. Few get the balance right. And, you have to drive through a lot of faceless towns to find the real gems.
Xigubao isn’t devoid of tourists but for the moment remains largely as it has been for centuries. Long may it last…although in reality that’s unlikely, as it’s the village elders who give the town so much of its character and charm.
- Doorway within the walls
- Martial arts at community centre
- View over village rooftops
- Village dwelling with old walls in background
- Old doorway
- View over rooftops
- Stone laneway
- Ancient stone wall
- Main city gate
- Village house with storm brewing
- Not everyone has funds for renovation
- Wheels of carts have worn grooves into paving stones
- City gate
- Detail, ancient building technique
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