An ancient village in Qingzhou, Shandong province recently was granted a special fund worth 3 million yuan ($473,900) for preserving its tangible heritage including ancient streets, houses and production tools as well as intangible cultural heritage.

Built in 1456 during the distant Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), Jingtang village in Wangfu subdistrict of Qingzhou has withstood the vicissitudes of nature for more than 500 years.

The village was included on the national list of "traditional Chinese villages" in November 2016 thanks to its well-preserved vernacular dwelling of the Ming Dynasty.

The stone path winds its way to the recesses of Jingtang Ancient Village in Qingzhou, Shandong province. [Photo/iqilu.com]

The Jingtang Ancient Village has now become a popular rural tourism destination due to its well-preserved quaint appearance and local government's efforts in protection and promotion. [Photo/iqilu.com]