In Zhejiang Province’s lush river valleys, Zhu Meijuan transformed her family home into an unexpected economic engine. When her Fuchun River guesthouse became overwhelmed with bookings, the entrepreneur faced a dilemma: turn visitors away or find a solution uplifting her entire community.
\"We realized one guesthouse couldn’t meet demand,\" Zhu explained. Her answer? A cooperative model where neighbors renovated their homes into themed accommodations – from riverside tea retreats to traditional craft workshops. Local income tripled within two years, with over 70% of village households now participating.
The initiative aligns with China’s rural revitalization strategy, creating a blueprint for sustainable tourism. Weekend occupancy rates average 95%, driven by urban travelers seeking nature escapes. The area’s ancient waterways and preserved architecture now form an immersive \"living museum\" experience.
With the Hangzhou Asian Games approaching, regional tourism authorities report a 210% year-on-year increase in Zhejiang’s rural homestay bookings. Environmental protections remain central – all guesthouses use solar power and collaborate with local organic farms.
Zhu’s next project? Training programs for young residents in hospitality and digital marketing. \"True prosperity,\" she says, \"means our children can build futures here.\"
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Guesthouses on the Fuchun River bring prosperity to local residents
cgtn.com
