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| Hani terraced fields |
With this year's new additions, China now boasts 15 villages holding the "Best Tourism Villages" title—the highest number of any country—underscoring the nation’s growing leadership in rural tourism development. The seven newly recognized villages are:
- Azheke Village (Yunnan)
- Guanyang Village (Fujian)
- Shibadong Village (Hunan)
- Taoping Village (Sichuan)
- Xiaogang Village (Anhui)
- Xitou Village (Zhejiang)
- Yandunjiao Village (Shandong)
These villages span China’s vast geography, from the eastern coastal regions to the central heartlands and the western mountainous areas. Each one reflects the rich diversity of Chinese culture, landscapes, and development models, making them perfect examples of how rural areas can thrive through sustainable tourism.
Azheke Village: A Model of Sustainable Tourism in Yunnan
Among the newly recognized villages, Azheke Village in Yunnan stands out as a shining example of integrating tourism with local cultural and environmental preservation. Located in the stunning Honghe Hani Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Azheke has pioneered a unique approach to tourism development that blends tradition with modernity.
The villagers of Azheke have embraced a model of collective participation in tourism. By sharing their homes, traditional lifestyles, and the beauty of their terraced fields, they have created a sustainable tourism ecosystem where both visitors and the local community benefit. This approach has fostered a sense of shared prosperity, as tourism dollars are reinvested into the village to improve infrastructure, preserve cultural practices, and support local businesses.
The Hani Rice Terraces themselves are a testament to the ingenuity and hard work of the Hani people, who have cultivated these terraces for over 1,300 years. Visitors to Azheke can immerse themselves in this rich cultural heritage, learning about the rice farming practices that have shaped the landscape and the daily lives of the villagers. In addition to the rice terraces, the village also offers a glimpse into the unique Hani culture, including traditional crafts, music, and cuisine.
Rural Tourism as a Key to Sustainable Development
The Best Tourism Villages initiative, launched by UN Tourism in 2021, aims to recognize and celebrate villages worldwide that are leading the way in rural tourism. The project seeks to highlight villages that successfully nurture rural areas while preserving landscapes, cultural diversity, local values, and culinary traditions.
China’s rural tourism has been rapidly developing in recent years, with villages embracing tourism as a way to boost local economies, create jobs, and improve living standards while maintaining their cultural identity. The recognition of these seven villages by UN Tourism demonstrates the significant progress made in this field.
In addition to Azheke, other villages such as Shibadong Village in Hunan and Taoping Village in Sichuan have also made strides in promoting sustainable tourism. Shibadong, for instance, is celebrated for its community-led efforts to alleviate poverty through tourism, while Taoping, known for its ancient cliff dwellings, offers a fascinating journey into China’s historical and architectural heritage.
A National Movement Toward Rural Revitalization
The awarding of the "Best Tourism Villages" title is a part of China’s broader rural revitalization strategy. As part of the country’s efforts to address urban-rural disparities, rural tourism has become a key driver of economic development in many remote areas. These villages are not only preserving their cultural landscapes but also improving the quality of life for their residents by integrating tourism with local development initiatives.
UN Tourism’s recognition helps shine a light on these areas as exemplary models of rural revitalization. The seven newly awarded villages join an already impressive list of Chinese villages that have received the "Best Tourism Villages" title, including Wuyuan Village in Jiangxi and Xijiang Miao Village in Guizhou, both of which have become iconic destinations for travelers seeking an authentic rural experience.
The Future of Rural Tourism in China
With the continuing success of rural tourism, China’s villages are set to become even more attractive to both domestic and international travelers in the years to come. The focus on sustainable, community-driven tourism ensures that the development of these areas will remain rooted in local culture and values while meeting the demands of modern travelers.
For visitors, these villages offer a chance to explore some of China’s most breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and unique ways of life. As rural tourism continues to grow in importance, these "Best Tourism Villages" will play a crucial role in shaping the future of travel in China, offering travelers a deeper connection to the country’s heritage and natural beauty.
In conclusion, the recognition of Azheke Village and the other six villages is a testament to China’s successful integration of tourism with rural development. With their commitment to sustainability, cultural preservation, and community engagement, these villages are helping to shape the future of tourism in China—an example that could inspire other nations to embrace the potential of rural tourism for both cultural enrichment and economic growth.
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