The opening ceremony of the Baotou Zouxikou Historical and Cultural Block is jam-packed with people. [Photo/WeChat account of Baotou culture & tourism bureau]

The grand opening of the Baotou Zouxikou Historical and Cultural Block was celebrated with a series of engaging events in Baotou, North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region, on Jan 19.

Zouxikou in Chinese refers to the emigration of residents from Shanxi, northern Shaanxi, Hebei and adjacent areas within the Great Wall to ethnic group areas outside the Great Wall for business or livelihood reasons from the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1911) to the early Republic of China (1912-49). Baotou was one of the business areas people migrated to at that time.

Thousands of local residents and tourists flocked to the street to experience its unique charm. They strolled through traditional courtyards, shopped for festive goods, savored local delicacies, and enjoyed captivating performances, immersing themselves in the vibrant blend of history and modern energy that now defines this revitalized district.

A camel caravan parade is held at the opening ceremony. [Photo/WeChat account of Baotou culture & tourism bureau]

The festivities began at 10:30 am with a "vintage-style" camel caravan parade. There, a powerful and energetic drum performance drew an enthusiastic crowd, setting the stage for a day of cultural splendor.

The parade took visitors on a journey through time, evoking the rich history of Baotou's Westward Migration while celebrating the city's contemporary prosperity.

The block officially opens after the ringing of the gong. [Photo/WeChat account of Baotou culture & tourism bureau]

By the end of the day, the revitalized cultural street had received over 70,000 visitors and generated more than 250,000 yuan ($34,174) in sales – a resounding success for both cultural tourism and local businesses.