Perched on the west bank of the Jin-Shaan Grand Canyon in Shaanxi Province on the Chinese mainland, Chiniuwa Village was once deemed uninhabitable. Just a decade ago, families lived in loess cave dwellings carved into the hillside.
Today, targeted tourism development has turned Chiniuwa into a Jiaxian County landmark. Villagers have adapted traditional cave homes into welcoming guest lodgings, while guided valley hikes, craft workshops and farm-to-table dining invite travelers to immerse themselves in local heritage.
This shift goes beyond aesthetics. By tapping into global demand for sustainable travel, the community has seen a steady rise in household incomes. Farming remains the backbone of daily life, but tourism revenue now supports new skills training and small businesses.
In September 2021, a visit revealed a vibrant scene: hikers pausing at cliffside platforms, artisans demonstrating age-old pottery techniques, and families sharing stories of transformation.
Chiniuwa’s journey highlights the power of community-driven tourism in poverty alleviation. Plans are underway to train young residents as eco-guides and expand low-impact facilities, ensuring that growth preserves the village’s natural landscape.
As travelers seek authentic experiences, Chiniuwa Village offers a blueprint: harness local culture and environment to unlock economic resilience and spark sustainable rural development.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
