The Meiji Changheli Yeweiyang Cultural Block in Juungar Banner was honored as a UN-Habitat exemplary case for cultural empowerment and transformation in resource-based cities at the case-sharing session on "Cultural Heritage Protection and Thematic Block Development", during the 2025 "International Dialogue on Urban-Rural Linkages" event held in Zhejiang province, on Nov 4 and 5.

During the event, Juungar Banner presented its innovative cultural and tourism initiative themed "Three Platforms, One Brand, and One Activity", showcasing how a resource-dependent city can transform itself through cultural empowerment. This banner's practice serves as a county-level model for high-quality development in resource-rich areas.

The Meiji Changheli Yeweiyang Cultural Block is crowded with visitors. [Photo/WeChat account of Juungar Banner Publishing]

At the heart of the "Three Platforms, One Brand, and One Activity" initiative, the Meiji Changheli Yeweiyang Cultural Block stands out with its innovative concepts and achievements, capturing the attention of UN-Habitat. The block features seven different zones, including ones focused on intangible cultural heritage and tech interaction, forming a symbiotic "One City, Three Parks" pattern.

With a creative core of "Traversing Millennia", the block constructs immersive scenes from the Sui (581-618), Song (960-1279), and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, blending ancient architecture and light-shadow technology. Visitors can wear traditional ancient costumes and explore the cultural block by lantern at night, making "Traversing Millennia" a tangible experience.

The success of the Meiji Changheli Yeweiyang Cultural Block has not only revitalized cultural tourism in Juungar Banner but also serves as a template for the transformation of resource-based cities. Looking ahead, the banner will continue to explore the potential of "cultural empowerment for urban transformation", offering a county-level model for regional high-quality development.