Rural tourism is a hot trend in China now, accounting for a third of all holidays, with 1.2 billion countryside holidays in 2014 alone. The Chinese Tourism Association told a recent conference that the trend had created 22 million jobs, and increased average farmer income by about $1500.
The trend reflects different aspects of China's complicated economy. In recent years, farm earnings have been low, causing many farmers to migrate to coastal cities for factory jobs. At the same time, this migration, often without permits, has led to unstable situations in a number of cities.
China is now encouraging workers to return home to set up businesses to serve the rural tourism movement, including small inns and restaurants and homestay locations. The customers for this are a growing class of city people with increased disposable income, more transportation options, and a desire for time away from the city.
"Wonderful nature, healthy food and a laid-back lifestyle make rural vacations attractive," according to Shao Qiwei, head of the Tourism Association. China's plans include 150,000 rural tourism villages, 3 million family inns, and 2 billion rural visits by 2020. For more details from People's Daily Online, click HERE.
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