Ancient stone houses at Yingtan village in Xingtai, Hebei province, Sept. 15, 2025. [Photo by Chen Xinyan/China.org.cn]

Yingtan village in Xingtai, north China's Hebei province, has transformed from a remote settlement at the foot of Taihang Mountain into a vibrant community through heritage protection and cultural tourism.

Boasting a history of over 600 years, Yingtan village features 67 ancient courtyards, 36 ancient stone bridges and more than 500 historic stone houses. It is one of the best-preserved ancient stone villages in north China.

Ancient stone houses at Yingtan village in Xingtai, Hebei province, Sept. 15, 2025. [Photo by Chen Xinyan/China.org.cn]

During the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, Yingtan served as a base for the Eighth Route Army, giving birth to its rich revolutionary heritage.

A floral display at Yingtan village in Xingtai, Hebei province, Sept. 15, 2025. [Photo by Chen Xinyan/China.org.cn]

In recent years, the village has embraced rural tourism, capitalizing on its unique architecture and cultural resources.