The Dananmen Historical and Cultural Block Protection and Development Project (Phase I) in Longyou county, Quzhou, East China's Zhejiang province, recently received the Urban Renewal Operation Gold Award of the Asia Urban Renewal Awards 2025.

The project stands out for its innovative approach to preserving historical heritage, while integrating modern cultural and entertainment activities.

The project creates vibrant cultural sites and activity spaces, enhancing the area's appeal as a leisure and tourism destination. It harmonizes historical preservation with modern urban life, combining it with daily living and festive celebrations.

The Asia Urban Renewal Awards, initiated by leading urban renewal organizations, aim to recognize projects, technologies, companies, and individuals that demonstrate innovation, exemplary practice, and reproducible value in urban renewal.

A quartet of pictures shows the appeal of the Dananmen historical and cultural block as a tourism destination. [Photo/Tide News]

The awards cover urban planning, architectural design, operational management, and technology application, with a focus on comprehensive benefits and sustainability.

This year's awards attracted over 300 projects from 150 organizations worldwide. A panel of 27 experts evaluated entries based on innovation, sustainability, social value, and cultural heritage.

Winning projects exemplify the core value of design in urban renewal, revitalizing both physical spaces and the cultural spirit of cities.

The Dananmen historical and cultural block in Longyou, once a key political, cultural, and commercial hub of the ancient county, features significant historical sites and architecture, serving as a local cultural landmark.