Constant changes

With the support of local government and Yang's own efforts, dirt roads were paved over, a rose and lily garden bloomed, and cooperatives for tourism and livestock farming were established in 2020.

"Every day brought new changes," Yang says with a smile.

"It was exhilarating."

Her first breakthrough came when Zhuangzimao's local products, including handmade cooking sauces and farm-fresh produce, gained popularity in nearby towns.

Seeing tangible results, more villagers joined her efforts. Yang then ingeniously tailored opportunities to each household's strength. One family raised sheep, another opened a farmhouse restaurant, and others started producing traditional goods. For those lacking startup funds, Yang provided financial support out of her own pocket.

Recognizing the power of the internet, she also embraced livestreaming e-commerce to sell local products like chili powder and handmade sauces, and taught her neighbors how to livestream, turning many households into mini-broadcasting stations.

It further put the village on the tourist map.

Yang Zhinan, 42, has been busy but full of joy as his farmhouse offering catering and accommodation has thrived since it opened in April last year.

"Tourists have been flocking to Zhuangzimao. Our homestay earns an average of nearly 2,000 yuan ($276) per day, and on weekends and holidays, daily revenue can double and reach up to 4,000 yuan," he says.

With over 20 years of culinary expertise, his homestay has become an instant hit among a rising number of visitors, drawing crowds eager to experience his hospitality and dishes.

In 2024, Zhuangzimao welcomed over 80,000 visitors, and its combined revenue from tourism and agricultural sales reached new heights. The village has held three profit-sharing meetings last year, benefiting 220 households.

"Only by working together can we achieve prosperity," Yang Qingyan says.