View of the Beijing Central Axis, northward from Yongdingmen [Photo by Rao Qiang]

Yang Wanjie, a young Beijinger, grew up in southern urban areas of the Chinese capital. When she was a girl, Yang often played near ancient buildings along the southern section of the Beijing Central Axis. 

Running north to south, and through the center of the ancient city, Beijing Central Axis is an ensemble of building complexes and archeological sites, all of which exemplify the ideal order of the Chinese capital. 

During recent years, Yang has noticed many remarkable changes that have taken place in the old city. For example, the streets and alleys in her neighborhood are tidy and clean. Many of the old buildings and courtyards are well protected. 

International tourists pose for a photo in Jingshan Park [Photo by Wu Yibin]

She was especially proud in 2021. Why? She joined in the development of an app, which was officially launched in 2022. By adopting AR (augmented reality) technology, the app presents vivid animations that recreate bustling business streets, along the Beijing Central Axis, dating back to the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1616-1911) dynasties. The app enables the Beijing Central Axis to "come alive." 

View of Bell Tower, whole standing on Drum Tower, in Beijing's Gulou area [Photo by Wu Yibin]

Since participating in the app's development, Yang has continuously deepened her understanding of the Beijing Central Axis. She has studied both the axis' history, systematically and carefully, and the culture related to ancient Beijing. The program behind the app has received support from experts and scholars, who have guided the program's team to read books and documents for reference. 

"Some of the historic buildings and/or sites have disappeared during urban development. But, fortunately, by adopting digital techniques, we are able to 'recreate' the ancient architecture and sites. Thus, we can help people learn more about the historic progression and the stories along this time-honored axis," Yang explains. 

Night view of the Beijing Central Axis [Photo by Fang Fei]

Nowadays, an increasing number of young people are joining efforts to protect the Beijing Central Axis. "More and more students have developed an interest in the axis. They make drawings and paintings, and they take photos of the axis, to record the charms of the ancient architecture and heritage. We are glad to see everyone here doing his/her part to help protect and promote the Beijing Central Axis," Yang says. She vows to continue making a contribution, by telling cultural stories of China, and in particular, by telling cultural stories about Beijing.

(Women of China English Monthly August 2024)

Editor: Wang Shasha