The old community in the city, where most senior citizens live, has become attractive to young people. [Photo by Tan Yingzi/China Daily]

On the wooden shelves are piles of books donated by the local library and anyone can borrow them for free.

"Xiao Guan is our working studio as well as a place for people to read and relax," says Xie Ranran.

They are encouraged and happy to see more and more young people attracted by these nostalgic mementos. Some couples now even choose to take their wedding photos in Xiahao.

"It is recognition of our city and our culture," she says.

They are planning to continue their renovation project of old houses in Chongqing and call for more public recognition of the city's rich and evocative past.

The good news is that other young people have begun to join Xies' revitalization project of Xiahao Old Street. A group of artists volunteered to paint the outside walls of the old houses with images and graffiti, lending the block a modern, creative feel.

Xiao Hao Lane and Frozen Green House are other teahouses that opened in this old block.