Ningyang Road, near Qingdao Railway Station in Shinan district, has witnessed change in the coastal city for more than a century.

Designated as a cultural symbol of Qingdao, Ningyang Road boasts historical treasures such as the Liyuan courtyard, a local residential building formed in the late 1920s to early 1930s. But now, the road glows with vitality due to the renovation of its Yinyuxiang, which literally means silverfish alley.

This year, the Qingdao city government issued a three-year action plan, highlighting the protection and renovation of the city's historical areas.

Local authorities said they have adhered to the philosophy of protection during the renovation work in a bid to preserve as many historical elements as possible.

They have built new facilities in the alley such as bathrooms with separate dry and wet sections, used new materials to reconstruct the roofs of buildings, and enhanced the functions of walls, doors and windows of old structures, as part of the efforts to bring a better experience for local residents.

Using the location advantages of Ningyang Road and the Liyuan courtyard, the alley has attracted brands including Nanzhi teahouse and Largo coffee. As of March, a range of stores such as Lulu toy shop and Berry Beans cafe had opened.

"We chose Yinyuxiang as the second place for us to open Berry Beans after the first one in Beijing, because the hustle and bustle around the Liyuan courtyard creates a suitable atmosphere for the combination of coffee and history," said Wei Hanye, manager of the cafe in Qingdao.

The cafe has attracted visitors including seniors who meet to recall memories. It has become one of the most popular destinations in Qingdao.

According to the local government, 72 projects for revitalizing historical areas got underway on April 28, with a total investment of 4 billion yuan ($594.68 million).The projects will run into 2024 and cover a total floor space of about 1.71 square kilometers.

They include 55 renovated roads, 12 new parking lots and six street-side gardens.

The general aim is to repair historical buildings, improve the infrastructure and introduce innovative business models.

A birdhouse is built at the Koudai park in Shinan district, Qingdao. WANG YUNXIAO/FOR CHINA DAILY

The street view of Yinyuxiang in Qingdao. CHINA DAILY