Tiny Playgrounds Transform Aging Chinese Neighborhoods

In Beijing's Chaoyang district, aging neighborhoods received a cheerful makeover for International Children's Day, featuring colorful murals and engaging installations designed for children. These improvements are driven by national guidelines issued in February 2026, aiming to promote child-friendly development across China.

The guidelines emphasize enhancing public spaces for sports, play, rest, and extracurricular activities, with a goal of comprehensive coverage in neighborhoods and communities.

Designer Li Qiuxue, a national award recipient, has spearheaded these transformations, creatively repurposing over 500 streets and public areas. Her projects blend play, education, and environmental themes, incorporating animal figures and interactive learning zones into residential compounds and revitalizing neglected corners.

Examples include environmentally themed murals on a former long wall and repurposed tires as flower planters at an abandoned garbage station, inspired by Li's own childhood experiences with limited educational resources.