The UNESCO World Heritage Committee has rated Pingyao as the best-preserved ancient county in China and an outstanding example of ethnic Han cities of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The committee held that the county offers a complete picture of cultural, social, economic and religious development in ancient times.

There are roughly 4,000 well-preserved residences in the historical area. More than a decade ago, most of them were "too shabby for the eye to see", recalls Fan Dongshan, a local resident.

In 2012, Pingyao came up with a protection and repair subsidy plan for traditional folk residences. The government offered two-thirds of the renovation costs while the owners covered the rest.

Fan signed up and received a funding of 170,000 yuan for his Qing Dynasty property.

To date, more than 1,000 local residences have been restored, benefiting more than 900 local people.

During the Spring Festival holiday, the ancient county received more than 340,000 tourist visits.

They can drop into ancient government offices, banks and temples, and imagine how their ancestors would go about their daily lives.

When night falls, red lanterns hanging from the eaves are lit, while bars and restaurants bustle with revellers.

As someone who left his home for a place with better conditions, Fan is quite content with his life at the moment.

The upgrade of local infrastructure and a strong cultural vibe have greatly spiced up his life.

"It's cozy just to stay in and sip tea in the courtyard," he says.