"Before, we had green mountains and clear waters but lived a tight life. Now our village has become a scenic area, and my old house has been renovated into a homestay, earning me rental income. Life is truly getting better!" said Huang Xiyou, a villager from Zhongzhai Village in Lubuge Village Committee, Zhongshan Township, Luoping County, as he watched the orderly renovation of his home.
On a late November morning, a light winter mist draped over Zhongzhai Village like a veil, gradually revealing the water-surrounded hamlet at dawn. Today, Zhongzhai Village features traditional Buyi-style houses with gray tiles and wooden structures scattered along the lakeshore, connected by waterfront boardwalks that showcase the picturesque scenery. Once a secluded village, Zhongzhai has now transformed into a sought-after tourist destination, thanks to the Shanghai-Yunnan assistance program. The project has revitalized the village by integrating agriculture, culture, and tourism, turning it into a "phoenix nest" that attracts visitors and provides villagers with stable income opportunities.
Zhongzhai Village boasts a superior natural environment, encircled by the Huangni River and surrounded by lush karst peaks and serene lakes. Despite its rich ecological and cultural resources, the village once struggled with poor transportation and underutilized assets. With the support of the Shanghai-Yunnan collaboration, local authorities identified a development strategy centered on "harmony between ethnic culture and nature," blending Buyi traditions with ecological advantages. By leveraging its reservoir views and village layout, the project enhanced tourism infrastructure, including waterfront trails, a banyan tree peninsula viewing platform, and a Buyi cultural street—preserving rural charm while catering to travelers' needs.
"The scenery here is breathtaking—clean air, beautiful landscapes, and rich ethnic culture. It’s a perfect escape from city noise. I’ll definitely return!" remarked tourist Ms. Li, who was amazed by the village’s transformation since her last visit years ago.
"After the project’s completion, we introduced integrated 'boat-and-shore' services. Tourists can book homestays, fruit-picking, or cultural experiences in Zhongzhai via mobile while cruising through the gorges," explained the Party branch secretary of Lubuge Village. Waterfront amenities like fishing decks and lakeside cafes now seamlessly connect with boat tours, offering visitors a dynamic "scenery at every step" experience.
The Shanghai-Yunnan platform has become a robust bridge, linking eastern funding with the village’s resources. With Shanghai’s aid, the project adopted an "operation-first" approach, establishing a four-part model involving "Shanghai-Yunnan funds + cooperatives + enterprises + farmers" to manage tourism operations and agricultural sales. This system ensures stable income for 469 residents across 189 households through "rent + wages + dividends." Post-launch, the project is expected to draw 70,000 annual visitors, generating over 400,000 yuan in direct revenue and creating 30+ local jobs, boosting per capita income by 12,000 yuan.
"Zhongzhai’s revival exemplifies the synergy between Shanghai-Yunnan collaboration and rural revitalization. We’ll further explore Buyi culture, strengthen partnerships with operators, and integrate with Lubuge’s Three Gorges scenic area to optimize resources and industries, ensuring villagers prosper at home," said a Zhongshan Township official.
Distance cannot sever the bond of cooperation. From "blood transfusion" to "blood generation," this once-isolated Buyi village now thrives under the Shanghai-Yunnan initiative, leveraging unique assets and rural revitalization to attract development opportunities, proving that even remote areas can flourish with the right support.
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