An Orthodox church along the railway line. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]

Dehui city is a cultural treasure trove in Northeast China's Jilin province. It boasts 106 Russian-style buildings along the Chinese Eastern Railway, including seven national and 67 provincial heritage sites. Focused on preserving and utilizing these relics, the city integrates history with modernity to breathe new life into its cultural assets.

Key initiatives include strict protection measures, such as embedding heritage preservation into urban planning and fostering a team of amateur heritage custodians. The city has restored iconic landmarks like the Dehui Railway Station, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and the Dabailou Building (now the Dehui Museum), which was recently recognized as a national AAA-level tourist attraction.

The Dehui Railway Station. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]

Dehui promotes cultural heritage through exhibitions, digital storytelling, and community participation to deepen public engagement. Volunteer associations contribute by documenting history and raising awareness. Educational activities like study tours and classroom sessions bring the history of the Chinese Eastern Railway to schools, fostering appreciation among youth.

Tourism development is equally vibrant, with the city curating red tourism routes that connect railway landmarks, wetlands, and reservoirs. These efforts position Dehui as a model for blending heritage preservation with cultural tourism, ensuring its historical gems continue to inspire future generations.

The Songhua River Railway Bridge. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]