Qianmen Street was once the route-of-choice for ancient Chinese emperors who traversed the street on their way to the Temple of Heaven. [Wu Chuanjing/chinadaily.com.cn]

“There are a total of 52 restored buildings and seven new buildings,” explains Zhang. “And it will house a total of 200 retailers both from China and abroad.”

Zhang says the new Qianmen is divided into three sections, each demarcated by different themed street lamps: birdcages, drums and lanterns. Certain retailers will be located in certain areas.

Managed by Qianmen Emperors Avenue Real Estate Development Ltd. the company has earmarked 10 million yuan ($1.4 million) annually for the next three years to support the street’s businesses and further develop the character of Qianmen, merging the opulence of old with the chic of today.