Cuandixia was built more than 500 years ago as a resting place for weary travelers going through the mountains from Beijing to the west. It became prosperous by providing food to the Forbidden City, but the wealth diminished over the years. Once in danger of becoming a ghost town, the city is seeing new life as a tourist attraction. The remaining residents are opening their homes to give modern-day travelers a glimpse into the past. With old stone and brick buildings, Cuandixia is said to be the best-preserved ancient village in China.