Xifeng's township turns summer coolness into thriving rural tourism economy

At an average altitude of 1,258 meters, with forest coverage reaching 62 percent and summer temperatures 3–5 C lower than surrounding areas, Qingshan Miao township in Xifeng county is using its natural advantages to develop a distinctive summer retreat economy rooted in local culture and rural vitalization.

The scenery of Qingshan Lake in Qingshan Miao ethnic township. [Photo/xifeng.gov.cn]

As the only ethnic township in the county, Qingshan has prioritized rural governance and ecological restoration to transform the living environment. Through targeted policies such as rural housing regulation and the renovation of idle dwellings, the township has converted 36 village homes into summer lodging sites, now offering over 300 guest rooms capable of hosting over 600 tourists.

Model projects like the "Yingzi Courtyard" demonstrate the potential of this transformation. Once a neglected dump, it is now a thriving flower workshop and homestay, generating over 200,000 yuan ($27,892) in annual income. Other sites, such as the "Qingshan Xiangju Nadu" guesthouse, are fully booked during holidays and have spurred local employment by involving over 20 households in food and hospitality services.

Local schools and cultural centers offer Miao traditional dance and embroidery workshops, drawing over 20,000 visitors annually. During festivals such as the April Eighth Festival, which falls on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, tourists can experience authentic folk performances and handicraft markets.

In 2024 alone, Qingshan received over 38,000 overnight visitors, including 8,000 summer tourists, boosting local incomes by more than 1.2 million yuan. By developing ecological trails, camping grounds, and experiential tourism routes, the township continues to enrich its tourism model – cool climate, scenic views, relaxing atmosphere, fresh flavors, cultural charm, and immersive activities.