Tianxin village in Fotang town, Yiwu city, was included on the list of historic and cultural villages in Zhejiang that have excelled in preserving and promoting their heritages.

The list was recently published by the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.

Tianxin village was founded by Wang Rujian, who settled there during the late Song Dynasty (960-1279). Most of today's villagers are Wang's descendants.

The village is one of the birthplaces of Jinhua Ham, a famous traditional food native to Jinhua city.

More than 30 buildings dating back to the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties still stand in the village.

Tianxin villagers celebrate a traditional festival that worships a local deity. [Photo/IC]

Tianxin villagers light hundreds of candles during the sacrificial ceremony for a local deity. [Photo/IC]