China has unveiled its first five-year plan focused specifically on cultural heritage protection, aiming to enhance legal frameworks and preservation efforts across the country. The plan, covering the period from 2026 to 2030, was announced in September and emphasizes the formulation of a dedicated cultural heritage protection law.

Hu Kaihong, deputy director of the General Office of the Central Commission for Guiding Cultural and Ethical Progress and director of the office for cultural heritage protection, outlined the initiative at a media briefing on Tuesday. According to Hu, the plan prioritizes safeguarding cultural heritage resources, promoting their rational and sustainable use, and adopting a principle of minimal intervention to maintain the integrity of historic sites.

The strategy includes improving legal and regulatory mechanisms to provide stronger safeguards for a wide range of cultural heritage types, such as historic districts and culturally significant areas. A key objective is to achieve full identification of China’s cultural heritage assets by 2030, supported by enhanced oversight and professional development in the field.

China currently hosts 61 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including globally recognized landmarks such as the Great Wall, the Mogao Caves, and the Beijing Central Axis. The new plan intends to strengthen systematic protection measures and consolidate unified management efforts to ensure the long-term preservation of these and other valuable cultural resources.

By advancing the legal framework and reinforcing institutional capacities, China seeks to better preserve its rich cultural heritage and facilitate its transmission to future generations amid rapid modernization and urban development.