Although he has had to reduce the number of tours he gives because of his dwindling physical strength, Chen Yongjian, in his 70s, says that he is not planning to give up the job, especially after President Xi visited the neighborhood during an inspection trip to Fujian in March 2021.

He says he has drawn strength from Xi's instructions about properly protecting ancient neighborhoods, buildings and cultural relics to preserve the history and cultural traditions of a city, and how important it is to value and respect old buildings and neighborhoods.

"I feel fortunate to be part of the neighborhood, thanks to my ancestors who chose to settle here," Chen Yongjian says.

"I grew up listening to the stories of historical figures and I feel it a privilege to share my love for my hometown with people from far and wide."

Yang Jie contributed to this story.

Contact the writers at yangfeiyue@chinadaily.com.cn