Huashiying, known as the last urban village in Beijing’s central business district, is on the verge of disappearing. The local government announced its decision on Feb. 27 to reclaim the land and demolish the aging buildings within the area. Photo: Sun Muzi, intern reporter/Caixin

Hushiying, constructed in the 1950s, is now surrounded by renowned skyscrapers including the China Zun and Jing Guang Centre. Photo: Li Congxun, intern reporter/Caixin

The village is composed of numerous single-story houses and several five-story apartment buildings. The area gained popularity among migrant workers for its affordable housing. Photo: Sun Muzi, intern reporter/Caixin

Despite the impending demolition, a grocery store in the village remains open on March 23. A couple from Central China’s Henan province run the store and have lived in the area for over two decades. Photo: Li Congxun, intern reporter/Caixin

Jia Cheng (pseudonym, second from the left) and Yang trim their customers’ hair on March 23. Their businesses dwindled as many residents agreed to relocate following the announcement of the demolition plan. Photo: Li Congxun, intern reporter/Caixin

Lai Guishan arrived in Beijing at the age of 19 and moved to the village after getting married in 1989, where he and his wife run a grocery store. He plans to stay until authorities settle his compensation, which includes a new house and a payout. Photo: Li Congxun, intern reporter/Caixin

Ma Xiang, a 33-year-old who grew up in the village, spent more than 100,000 yuan ($14,000) on renovating his house in 2019. He received compensation from local authorities for the expenses after the demolition plan commenced. Photo: Li Congxun, intern reporter/Caixin

Yang Jianlin and his colleagues collect recyclable items on March 21. Photo: Li Congxun, intern reporter/Caixin

By the end of March, shops on peripheral streets had all been shuttered, with the word “acquisition” spray painted on the front doors. Photo: Sun Muzi, intern reporter/Caixin

Preliminary assessment results show that residential properties in the village are valued at about 89,000 yuan per square meter. The future prospects for the area, however, remain uncertain. Photo: Sun Muzi, intern reporter/Caixin