Tourists visit Wucun for its pastoral appeal. The village in the famous water town Wuzhen in Zhejiang province has been developed into a tourist attraction that brings city people close to nature, and they can enjoy fresh food directly from the fields. Photo by Yang Feiyue / China Daily

Qian Ziqiang, who also works in the tourism area after he was relocated, echoes Zhu's sentiments.

His new home stands at the village's entrance.

"I'm not working for money but to do something with my life," the 67-year-old says, while feeding cows, sheep and fowl.

"Doing nothing would be boring."

None of the old houses have been torn down, claims Wuzhen Tourism Co's president, Chen Xianghong.

Many buildings have been renovated but their basic structures have been maintained, he says.

Fishponds and trees have also been protected, he says.

Many former farmhouses appear to be crumbling from the outside, but their interiors are comparable to starred hotels, replete with rural-style furniture.

The village can accommodate nearly 300 guests at a time. For now.

"We hope (people) visit for more than a meal in a building that resembles a farmhouse, but instead stay to immerse themselves in the culture."

That is, to truly experience country living.