In China, a country with over 5,000 years of continuous history, `古迹` are more than just tourist attractions; they are cornerstones of national identity and cultural pride. The government and the public place immense value on preserving these sites as they are seen as the physical embodiment of China's long and rich story. Visiting `古迹` is a common family activity and a key part of the education system, aimed at fostering a connection to one's roots. Compared to the Western concept of a “historical landmark,” `古迹` often implies a grander scale of time. While a Western landmark might be a few hundred years old and commemorate a specific event (e.g., a battlefield or the signing of a treaty), a Chinese `古迹` can be tied to entire dynasties that lasted for centuries, like the Terracotta Army (Qin Dynasty) or the Summer Palace (Qing Dynasty). The feeling is less about a single moment in history and more about connecting with a vast, sprawling civilization. It's a direct, physical link to the “ancient traces” of a culture that has endured for millennia.
`古迹` is a common and somewhat formal term used widely in travel, education, and media.