Revitalization of an Ancient Village into a Travel Hotspot

New Beginnings in Dashiban

The transformation of Dashiban, a 600-year-old village nestled by Qionghai Lake in Sichuan, demonstrates the incredible potential of tourism revitalization. Once a significant hub on the ancient international trade routes of the Southern Silk Road and the Tea Horse Road, Dashiban fell into decline as modern trade moved towards maritime transport. Today, however, it stands as a model of rural revitalization, creating a vibrant new economy centered on tourism.

The Journey of Chen Xiaoyu

Chen Xiaoyu’s story reflects the changing fortunes of the village. After spending a decade working in Guangzhou, she returned home in 2018, hoping to capitalize on her connections in trade but found a new passion in hospitality. Renting a farmer’s house, she transformed it into a chic homestay. “My earnings from foreign trade were comparable to what I now make through tourism,” she shared, indicating that her homestay business earns approximately the same amount as her previous salary, estimated at about 4 million yuan (approximately $550,000)

The Renewal of Dashiban

The local government’s initiative to enhance Dashiban started in January 2021 with a rural revitalization project aimed at preserving the village’s historical integrity while upgrading its tourism infrastructure. The authorities emphasized the phrase, “repairing the old as old,” ensuring that the renovations preserved the old-world charm that attracted visitors. With these improvements, the village’s appeal surged, leading to an influx of tourists and a revitalization of the local economy.

Economic Revitalization

This shift toward tourism has transformed the village’s economic landscape. With renovated aesthetics, Dashiban experiences a newfound economic pulse drawn by national and international visitors. “The renovations made it stunning, and this directly improved my business,” says Chen, who has since expanded her enterprise. Her homestay now includes a dining area and offers tickets for local attractions, tapping into the growing tourism economy.

Return of the Youth

Chen’s experience is not an isolated incident; the tourism boom beckoned many former residents back home. Rural areas often struggle to attract younger generations who seek opportunities in urban environments. “Initially, there were virtually no young people left,” said Chen. “Now, almost everyone has returned to help grow the business.”

From Fishing to Fine Dining

One resident, Xiao Wenfang, illustrates the changes in the local culinary scene. After moving from Chengdu, she opened a restaurant specializing in local fish dishes, a shift from her family’s previous business of selling live fish. “With the influx of visitors, our revenue soared to over 2 million yuan last year,” she shares proudly. This economic transition showcases how tourism can create flourishing businesses and diverse job opportunities.

Changing the Face of a Community

The village is shedding its agricultural-focused history, shifting into tourism and wellness industries. By promoting cultural experiences, visitors are encouraged to connect with various ethnicities represented in the village. Tours featuring traditional attire from multiple ethnic backgrounds, like Han, Tibetan, and Miao costumes, allow tourists to dress up and savor the authentic cultural experience. Each holiday attracts numerous travelers eager to engage with the village’s rich heritage.

Tourism – A Lively Pillar of Dashiban

In an impressive feat, Dashiban now boasts 232 homestays, 85 restaurants, and 65 photography studios catering to travelers. Last year, an astonishing 1.9 million tourists visited, generating a remarkable 900 million yuan in tourism revenue. “Tourism is now our mainstay, providing jobs for over 1,000 villagers,” states Yin Jun, the Party Secretary of Dashiban community, who noted that per capita income has increased by over 10,000 yuan in four years due to this tourism expansion.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Dashiban plans to further enhance its offerings with initiatives like a 13.3-hectare “seed paradise.” This proposed agri-tourism project will enrich visitors’ experiences and allow them to engage more deeply with the serene agricultural practices that characterize the region.

A Destination for All Ages

The village appeals particularly to senior travelers seeking extended stays. One such visitor, Liu Meiqing from Beijing, expressed her delight: “The environment here is wonderful. I feel at home.” This influx of diverse travelers highlights the village’s potential as a holistic travel destination, bridging cultural experiences and natural beauty.

結論

The revitalization of Dashiban demonstrates that even a humble village can become a dynamic travel hub through thoughtful planning and strategic investment in tourism. While reviews and feedback can provide insights, nothing compares to experiencing the charm of Dashiban firsthand. For those eager to explore such unique destinations without breaking the bank, GetExperience.com offers secure payment options and customized experiences that cater to every traveler’s needs. Embrace convenience, affordability, and a variety of offerings by exploring tours and excursions tailor-made for your preferences. 旅行の予約.

In essence, the story of Dashiban echoes the broader importance of sustainable tourism across many regions. Local communities can thrive through this economic model, offering enriching travel experiences while ensuring cultural and historical heritage is respected and preserved. As the tourism landscape evolves, places like Dashiban will blend adventure with rich cultural narratives, encouraging travelers to engage deeply with the world around them.