Up the right alley in hutongs

The Nanluoguxiang area in Beijing is a new center for craftsmen to revive cultural heritage such as snuffbox miniature paintings (above) and figurines. [Wang Kaihao / China Daily]

"When talking about the Chinese god of fortune, most people will think of the images popular in southern China," Peng, a Beijing native, says.

"Few young people in Beijing now know that Liu Haichan was once very popular among families in this city."

Peng expects that the revitalization of this tradition may also help more Beijing residents get involved in a shared lifestyle in today's busy world.

Besides, he adds, in this technological age anyone promoting traditional culture needs to be highly creative.

Xu Yan, head of Nanluoguxiang Chamber of Commerce, says the influence of the business model will probably extend beyond one of Beijing's busiest tourist destinations, which attracts more than 70,000 visitors on Saturdays and on Sundays.

"With Nanluoguxiang's booming business, property owners will want to continue renting their houses for more such businesses," he says, and this will keep rents high.

For example, the rent on shop space of 20 square meters would typically be 25,000 yuan ($3,900) a month.