Huizhou in Guangdong Province has been approved by the State Council, China's cabinet, for recognition as a famous historical and cultural city, according to an official document.
The document, signed by Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, said Huizhou boasts a long history and many relics and has a well-preserved traditional layout.
The document urged local authorities to balance the relationship between urban planning and protection of historical and cultural relics.
Priorities for the city include renovation and protection of traditional villages and preserving the religious culture at the city's Luofu Mountain.
Official statistics show that China has listed more than 100 cities as famous historical and cultural cities, including Beijing and Nanjing.
