Abstract In the historical and cultural legacies of the world, China's ancient villages occupy an important place. Because of their large number, wide distribution and high historical value, they have been refered to as 'pearls of traditional culture' and 'national treasures of folk collection'. The present situation of their preservation, however, is far from satisfactory. It is, therefore, quite urgent to select and decide on a number of representative ancient villages for immediate rescue and special protection as 'China's famous villages of historic and cultural interest'. This paper revie...