Visitors enjoy a performance on Tianjin Ancient Cultural Street in Nankai district on May 1. [Photo by Wei Jin/For China Daily]

Passing under a vibrant vermilion archway in the morning, the lively calls of street vendors fill the air, instantly transporting visitors back to the bustling old-town ambience of Tianjin, a thriving coastal city with a rich history.

As evening falls, amid red walls and black tiles adorned with shimmering lights, visitors are captivated by popular intangible cultural heritage items and local delicacies. These picturesque scenes unfold in the recently renovated Luhe Duyun Alley, nestled within the Tianjin Ancient Cultural Street in Nankai district.

The 200-meter alley mirrors the scenes depicted in the historical Luhe Duyun Painting, showcasing the vibrant commercial and cultural activities along a grand canal built during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) under Emperor Qianlong's rule (1736-96). "The newly renovated and opened alley is part of Nankai district's endeavor to establish itself as a premier tourism hub in the city. Plans are underway to introduce additional tourist attractions throughout the district," said Nie Weixun, head of Nankai district.

The district saw 1.61 million tourist visits during the May Day holiday from May 1 to 5, creating a combined value of 523 million yuan ($72.4 million), up 14 percent year-on-year, according to official statistics. "The renovation efforts and the introduction of unique cultural and tourism initiatives are poised to infuse fresh energy into the street, attracting a larger audience keen to explore and experience the area," Nie said.

Efforts to upgrade the alley's buildings have produced positive outcomes. For example, Jade Emperor Pavilion, a Taoist temple dating back to 1427, and the Tianhou Temple, dedicated to the worship of the Mazu goddess and constructed in 1326, have both attracted more visitors with their new looks and services.

Tianhou Palace has begun promoting official cultural and creative products, such as figurines, specialty cups and sachets, since this May.