Creative renewal revives rundown urban district

CHONGQING — Just behind Guanyinqiao, the popular commercial area in Chongqing's Jiangbei district, is the old residential neighborhood of Taping. Built in the 1980s, it has become a strong example of successful urban renewal efforts.

It emerged as an upmarket residential neighborhood in the last century, but then became a dilapidated area after it was eclipsed by high-rise buildings. Now it is experiencing a revival as a creative and artistic spot.

Besides making standard improvements such as renovating walls and tidying up exposed wires, Jiangbei's department of housing and urban-rural development has introduced small shops into the neighborhood, establishing a mix of nostalgia and creative businesses that appeal to young people.