A new beginning for The Great World

The newly renovated Great World has invited artists and actors to perform as part of efforts to brand it as a venue that showcases intangible cultural heritage from around the world. [Photo by Gao Erqiang/China Daily]

Zheng, a retired bus driver, had gone to the park on the first day of its soft opening at the end of December, but was left disappointed as the venue was only open to members of the media and invited guests.

"Among so many historical relics and buildings that are considered iconic in my hometown, The Great World is the one I personally feel most connected to. It's one of the few that was accessible to us ordinary people. Our childhood memories are embedded in every one of its bricks," said Zheng.

However, Zheng admits that he will not be visiting the park as often as he used to when it reopens.

"I don't think I need to see the different forms of cultural heritage so regularly. Besides, it's so easy to travel and see the world these days," he added.

Established by tobacco tycoon Huang Chujiu in 1917, who was notorious for having made his fortune by tricking people into buying local medication at the price of imported ones, The Great World was built to be a multi-faceted amusement park featuring Western cafes, cinemas, fun fairs, Chinese tea houses and traditional opera theaters.