Rural tourism flourishes in Xixia

In recent years the Xixia government has sought to increase economic development and social welfare in its rural areas by introducing favorable policies on agriculture and tourism.

Statistics released in August show that the policies so far have been a success, with many small towns and villages in the county reporting more income and increased visitor numbers.

Xixia county, belongs to Nanyang, Henan province, and has a reputation of being "Green Kingdom" due to 81 percent of its land area being lush forest.

The released statistics show that Shuanglong township in the county received more than half a million visitors last year, bringing in revenues of 20 million yuan ($2.99 million), and signaling growth in the township's tourism economy.

Longtan Valley, a 4-A scenic spot in Shuanglong, was a major contributor to the growth. Within the valley some 142 farm stays have been established, able to accommodate 15,000 visitots at a time as well as provide supporting services. As a result the area experienced an extra per capita income of 15,000 yuan.

It was not just Shuanglong, but other rural regions of Xixia experienced promising signs in economic development.

The orchards in Huangshi village were planted with the view to attract visitors, and include a kiwi fruit demonstration base that covers 3,390 mu (226 hectares), and has become a popular tourist attraction, yielding an annual revenues of 30 million yuan.

Residents in Dongping village, near Old Range, a 5-A scenic spot, planted 3,200 mu of dogwood, a beautiful flower but also a medical herb, establishing an entertainment center integrating sightseeing, leisure, fitness and health-keeping. It has played a vital role in improving local tourism. Additionally, there are 76 farm stays in the village, with yield annual revenues of more than 15 million yuan.