Revitalization of Dikengyuan Residences in Sanmenxia, Henan Combines Cultural Heritage Preservation with their Tourism Growth, Boosting Local Economy

Published on December 22, 2025

On the 21st of December, 2025, artists showcased their work in the Dikengyuan residence located in the Beiying Village of Zhangbian Township in the city of Sanmenxia in the province of Henan. China has a rich culture expressed in the sunken courtyard traditional architectural designs of the Dikengyuan residence in the region. The sunken courtyard designs have come to symbolize the culture of the people of Henan in China.

The Dikengyuan Residence was officially listed as part of the intangible cultural heritage of the whole of China in 2011. This has made the continued preservation and revitalization of the residences possible through the increasing number of tourists that get attracted by the desire to discover the diversities that exist within the architecture and cultural practices of China.

Revitalization and Integration with Tourism: Bridging Heritage and Modernity

In recent years, Sanmenxia has worked diligently to restore and preserve these historic Dikengyuan residences, transforming them into tourist attractions. The restoration efforts not only preserve the unique sunken courtyard design but also highlight the region’s importance in understanding traditional architecture in central China. These efforts aim to connect the past with the present, preserving local heritage while creating modern tourism experiences.

The restored Dikengyuan residences have become a cultural tourism focal point, offering visitors the opportunity to engage with the region’s traditions while experiencing contemporary amenities. The local tourism initiatives have resulted in more cultural exchanges and increased tourism spending, benefiting not only the tourism sector but also local artisans and small businesses. As these traditional dwellings draw more visitors, they contribute significantly to the region’s economy by stimulating growth in hospitality, retail, and service industries.

Cultural Tourism: A Powerful Tool for Sustainable Development

The revitalization of the Dikengyuan residences has far-reaching implications for the growth of cultural tourism in Sanmenxia and Henan Province. By showcasing local heritage, the project supports sustainable tourism development, where cultural preservation and economic growth go hand in hand. As tourists increasingly seek authentic, immersive experiences, cultural tourism has become a key factor in the long-term success of the region’s tourism strategy.

One of the significant impacts of cultural tourism is its ability to create deeper connections between visitors and the local community, fostering a greater appreciation for traditional lifestyles, craftsmanship, and regional history. In the case of Sanmenxia, the Dikengyuan residences offer visitors the chance to experience not only the architecture but also the region’s artisanal crafts and culinary traditions. These cultural experiences allow for meaningful tourism that educates visitors about the importance of heritage conservation and the role it plays in community identity.

Expanding Cultural Tourism’s Impact on Local Economy and Social Development

The growing interest in cultural tourism offers substantial benefits to the local economy, particularly in regions like Sanmenxia, where tourism infrastructure is still developing. As more tourists are drawn to the restored Dikengyuan residences, local businesses, such as guesthouses, restaurants, and souvenir shops, are thriving. The influx of tourists creates jobs, boosts local entrepreneurship, and stimulates economic activity in historically underdeveloped areas.

Additionally, the collaboration between local government and private tourism operators ensures that the region’s cultural resources are effectively marketed, attracting more international and domestic tourists. As this cultural tourism sector grows, the region is likely to see further investment in infrastructure, including transportation, accommodation, and tourism facilities.

Long-Term Cultural Tourism Vision: Expanding Beyond Local Heritage

The revitalization of the Dikengyuan residences serves as a model for how cultural tourism can be used to stimulate long-term growth in regional economies while ensuring the preservation of traditional architecture. As China continues to embrace cultural tourism, the importance of sustainable heritage tourism will only increase, encouraging local governments to invest more in tourism infrastructure and preservation efforts.

Looking ahead, Sanmenxia and Henan Province have the potential to become leading destinations for cultural tourism in China, capitalizing on authentic cultural experiences and traditional architecture. As the country’s tourism industry grows, cultural tourism will play an integral role in diversifying the types of travel experiences offered and ensuring sustainable growth in the sector.

A Model for Sustainable and Profitable Cultural Tourism

The renovation and promotion of the Dikengyuan residences in Sanmenxia can be said to be a new paradigm in sustainable tourism. Cultural tourism and economic development were found to work very well together. Without a doubt, the success behind this project shows the sustainable potential that cultural tourism has to offer not only to the economy but also to the preservation of local identity.

As cultural tourism continues to gain momentum as a new trend in tourism across the globe, the experience that Sanmenxia has gained will help set the pace. It’s a fact that with the same dedication and commitment to tourism advancements, the Gangwon Province will surely make its mark on the new trend in cultural tourism in China.