Tourists destinations across China's rural areas have drawn holidaymakers with a variety of cultural activities, blending folk traditions, farming experiences and natural scenery during the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday.
With visitor numbers and tourism revenue on the rise, rural tours are fast becoming a favorite choice for holidaymakers and a new driver of rural revitalization.
In Zhouyao Village of Henan Province, visitors took part in traditional pottery-making, reading in a countryside library, and a valley folk music festival. Local specialties, from herbs to delicacies, were also featured in interactive cooking sessions. "We have deeply integrated traditional festivals with cultural experiences. Therefore, tourists can not only relax on vacation but also gain a profound experience of our unique local culture," said homestay owner Fan Linlin.
In Jingping Ancient Village, central China's Hunan Province, tourists immersed themselves in the rustic charm of old-style houses, watched local troupes perform Chenhe Gaoqiang (high pitched tune) opera , and even learned to sing under the guidance of instructors.
"Here, you can not only immerse yourself in the charm of the ancient architecture, but also personally take part in intangible cultural heritage experiences. It allows the mind to slow down and makes us feel comfortable and pleasant," said a tourist named Wu Bin.
In Xinshi Ancient Town of east China's Zhejiang Province, a holiday fair featuring trendy merchandises inspired by traditional Chinese culture and singing competitions brought fresh vitality to the centuries-old town.
Meanwhile, in Xuyi County of east China's Jiangsu Province, a tour combining tea culture study with farming activities allowed visitors to pick and fry tea leaves themselves.
"My child always stays in the city. So being able to pick and fry tea leaves with his own hands here is way more meaningful than playing in an amusement park. Plus, we could enjoy the natural fragrance of tea.," said a parent named Chen Min.
At the Fenghuanggou scenic area in Nanchang County of east China's Jiangxi Province, terraces planted with over 40,000 lilies created a colorful sea of flowers, offering visitors a romantic autumn escape.
Elsewhere, on the cableway of Xuefeng Mountains scenic area in Hunan, tourists experienced a thrilling journey in the air high above the peaks.
Cultural experiences, natural scenery draw holidaymakers to China’s rural areas
