How Dashiban Transformed into a Thriving Travel Destination

A Rebirth of Dashiban Village

Located by the picturesque Qionghai Lake, the 600-year-old village of Dashiban in Xichang, Sichuan, has undergone a remarkable transformation that positions it as a trendy travel destination. Once a critical hub on ancient trade routes, its decline mirrored that of many traditional villages, but recent revitalization efforts have brought it back to life, making it a must-see spot for travelers.

The Return of Chen Xiaoyu

After spending a decade in the bustling city of Guangzhou, Chen Xiaoyu made the bold decision to return to her hometown in 2018. Upon her return, she leased a farmer’s house in Dashiban and metamorphosed it into a boutique homestay. The surprising twist? She now earns approximately the same as her previous income of around 4 million yuan (about $550,000) from foreign trade.

From Decline to Prosperity

Dashiban faced a significant downturn when maritime transport took precedence over overland routes, leading to economic challenges for the residents who primarily depended on fishing and farming. As villagers sought opportunities elsewhere, the local economy dwindled, leaving behind abandoned homes and farmland.

Government Initiatives that Made a Difference

To counteract this, Xichang initiated a rural revitalization project in January 2021. The village underwent protective restoration aimed at preserving its historical character while also upgrading local tourism infrastructure. This upgrade, which embraces local cultural elements and traditions, attracts visitors by offering immersive experiences.

Business Boom in Dashiban

Thanks to these revitalization efforts, the once-sleepy village now boasts 232 homestays, 85 restaurants, and 65 travel photography studios, welcoming 1.9 million visitors and generating a notable 900 million yuan in tourism revenue in a single year. Locals like Chen have successfully expanded into various sectors, including dining and ticket sales for nearby attractions, witnessing direct benefits from the influx of tourists.

Community Revitalization

The surge in tourism has been a game-changer for Dashiban’s community. Migrant workers are returning to the village to start fresh ventures. “There were hardly any young people when I began my business,” pleads Chen, stating, “but now, almost all have come back.”

A New Culinary Scene

Xiao Wenfang joined the trend, leaving her job in Chengdu to open a restaurant with her father, serving up specialty fish dishes that capitalized on the growing tourism industry. This venture alone generated over 2 million yuan last year, highlighting the economic uplift that can come with community-focused initiatives.

Toward a Sustainable Future

Under the guidance of Yin Jun, the Party secretary of the Dashiban community, the shift from traditional activities to tourism-focused endeavors emphasizes wellness and cultural representation. Ethnic-themed travel photography has emerged as a key attraction, with numerous studios offering costumes from various local ethnic groups. During festive seasons, visitors flock to the village, donning traditional outfits and engaging in cultural activities against the stunning backdrop of Dashiban’s landscape.

Investment in Experience

The village’s future looks promising as plans are underway for a 13.3-hectare “seed paradise” aimed at providing visitors unique agricultural experiences. This vision not only caters to the tourists but also strengthens the local economy, making it a vibrant locale for all.

A Destination for All Ages

Notably, Dashiban has also become a favored destination for senior travelers seeking extended stays. Beijing native Liu Meiqing, a retiree and self-professed avid traveler, expressed her contentment with the village, stating, “The environment here is wonderful. I don’t ever want to leave.”

Summary: Embracing Change and Opportunity

The revitalization of Dashiban serves as a blueprint for how villages can transform challenges into opportunities, emphasizing sustainable tourism and community engagement. The bustling tourist season offers a wealth of experiences to visitors and vastly improves locals’ quality of life through job creation and income growth.

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