Historical buildings on Zhongshan Road take on a new look after renovation. [Photo/Qingdao Daily]

Historical blocks in Qingdao's Shinan district are breathing new life thanks to the smooth operation of the city's urban renovation project.

Shinan has created historical block brands including "Shangjieli" and "Silver Fish Alley", opened 28 new courtyard shops, and held more than 200 activities such as 3D lightshows.

The first Shangjieli Beer Festival, which took place in late July, attracted over 500,000 visitors.

The landmark historical block "Sanjiangli" has developed a slew of new business formats that feature catering, bookstores, handicrafts and photography.

Five courtyards with a total area of 5,900 square meters were also restored to become an apartment complex for young adults.

In addition, a museum themed on historical memories of Zhongshan Road, where a majority of Qingdao's cultural relics are located, was built to reproduce the city's urban development over the past century.

Powered by multimedia technologies, including virtual reality and augmented reality, the museum is able to offer visitors a vivid depiction of Qingdao's culture and history.