Major target

Cui is happy that most of his visitors are young people, who are his major target. Their appreciation of paper can go a long way to fulfilling his goal of preserving and carrying forward ancient crafts.

"The park is doing a great job in filling its space with cultural elements that match the tastes of young people," he said.

In addition to running his shop, Cui interacts with other business owners at the park.

"We are all pretty close in age, we speak the same language, and life here is full of vitality," he said.

Cui feels that as the park develops, it will attract more visitors.

The park also boasts a small theater that provides content creation space for young performers.

Fang Chao, who is in charge of the park's operation, said: "We have collaborated with a number of theater teams so that they can rent our venue at a discount for their rehearsals and performances. Courses at the theater will also be open to visitors and local residents."

Yin, the restaurant owner, has moved into an apartment offered by the park administration.

Whenever she has time, she sits on a bench in the courtyard at the park to relax.

"It's really nice taking in all the new cultural vibes in the hutong, reading, playing with my phone, or just zoning out," Yin said.

As she has come to better know the management team and other business owners, the park has become increasingly close to her heart.

"I'm really happy living and working in the same place, mixing business with pleasure," she said.