The construction of a two-story concrete frame house in Lolo Chai, Tuyen Quang (formerly Ha Giang), in late november 2025, sparked diverse opinions. The village was recognized by UN Tourism as "best tourism village in the world" in october 2025, owing to the cultural value of the Lolo community, its stunning stone plateau landscape, and a commitment to sustainable tourism.

Images of the modern structure appearing amidst traditional rammed-earth houses raised concerns about the potential disruption to the traditional landscape. Currently, the local area lacks comprehensive architectural standards that balance preservation with new construction. Building activities in the village are managed and supervised according to the regulations for rural residential architectural management and the Lolo Chai village code.

Many renowned ancient villages worldwide have faced similar challenges, gradually developing models that harmonize heritage preservation with improved living standards.

In Japan, Shirakawago village in Gifu prefecture, established in the 17th century, is famous for its gassho-zukuri architecture, featuring steep thatched roofs resembling two hands clasped together, designed to withstand heavy snow. The village was designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 1995. However, this architectural style presents challenges: thatched roofs are flammable, degrade quickly, and are expensive to replace. Additionally, the old houses struggle to meet modern safety, heating, and living requirements.

Shirakawago ancient village in summer. *Source: Japan Experience*

To address these issues, authorities permit steel structural reinforcement and the installation of modern fire prevention systems, electricity, and plumbing indoors, provided the exterior shell, made of natural materials, remains unchanged. Financial support programs and the Machizukuri community movement are implemented to share renovation costs. This approach resolves safety and economic challenges while preserving the village's original appearance.

In South Korea, Bukchon Hanok village, nestled in modern Seoul, boasts a history of over 600 years, dating back to the Joseon era (1392-1910), when it served as a residence for nobles. Its Hanok architecture, characterized by curved black tiled roofs, stone walls, and open courtyards, is deeply intertwined with Confucian culture and adapts to the temperate climate through a natural ondol underfloor heating system.

Unlike many isolated ancient villages, Bukchon thrives within a bustling urban center, where land values are high, and it faces the challenge of tourist overload. Although not a UNESCO heritage site, Bukchon maintains strict preservation regulations.

Interiors are modernized with electric heating, soundproofing, and enclosed bathrooms, but the facades must retain their traditional proportions. The Seoul government provides non-refundable grants and interest-free loans for repairs, focusing on exteriors, with costs varying based on scale and location.

The Seoul government also implements tourism management measures to protect residents' lives. In march 2025, Bukchon Hanok village imposed a curfew from 17h to 10h to limit visitor access. Day-trippers who violate the curfew face fines up to 100,000 won (72 USD). Residents, business owners, and overnight guests staying in traditional hanok homes within the village are exempt. This model not only preserves historical value but also transforms Hanok into a modern living space, fostering economic activity from accommodation to cultural experiences.

Tourists visit Bukchon Hanok ancient village. *Photo: Reuters*

Anhui province, China, is home to two ancient villages popular with tourists: Hongcun and Xidi. Hongcun was founded in 1131 by Song dynasty General Vuong Van and flourished through tea, paper, and salt trade. Xidi, established in 1047 by the Ho clan, prospered through commerce. Both villages feature characteristic Anhui architecture, with three-story wooden houses, skywells, and intricate water systems shaped like oxen or crescent moons, adapted to the humid river and mountain environment.

Both villages were recognized as UNESCO world cultural heritage sites in 2000, together forming a cultural monument representative of traditional Chinese rural architecture and lifestyle.

According to a 2024 study published in the journal Sustainability by a research group from Hefei University of Technology, China, most ancient houses in these two villages are constructed from wood, rammed earth, and fired bricks, making them susceptible to dampness, degradation, high fire risk, and unsuitability for modern living. Many households wish to install enclosed bathrooms, improve electrical and plumbing systems, and reinforce structures. However, preservation regulations in the core zone require maintaining the original layout, materials, and architectural forms. This restriction makes it difficult for residents to upgrade their homes according to actual needs.

As tourism developed, many homes converted into lodging businesses or souvenir shops. Environmental pressures, including waste and wastewater from large numbers of visitors, strain the ancient infrastructure, which was originally designed for small-scale agricultural life.

To address these conflicts, local authorities implemented a UNESCO-standard management model with clear zoning between the core preservation zone and buffer areas. The core zone only permits renovations using traditional materials, while buffer and peripheral service areas are allowed to develop modern infrastructure such as hotels, parking lots, and wastewater treatment systems, reducing pressure on the ancient villages. This approach enables residents to access modern conveniences without violating preservation regulations.

The Anhui provincial government also allocates a portion of village entrance ticket revenue to a conservation fund, used to support house repairs, fire safety, and environmental improvements. Residents indirectly benefit through homestay operations and selling agricultural products, which motivates them to voluntarily prevent illegal construction.

Hongcun village from above. *Photo: traveliszen*

Authorities organize dialogues with villagers, encouraging their participation in management through village councils or tourism cooperatives, ensuring residents' voices are heard. Some programs also support training in sustainable tourism skills, helping villagers transition from agriculture to service businesses while preserving their cultural identity.

Incentives are applied to encourage off-peak visitation through discounted low-season tickets, and transportation infrastructure is improved to reduce congestion and pollution.

For UNESCO heritage sites, two core principles are always emphasized: authenticity and integrity. Authenticity demands fidelity to the original design, materials, and cultural context. Integrity requires protecting the overall space, preventing modern development from disrupting its structure and landscape. Based on these principles, many countries choose to allow modernization within structures to ensure safety and convenience, while strictly maintaining the external appearance and village layout. Financial mechanisms to share conservation costs and benefits with residents are applied concurrently.

Mai Phuong (Compiled)