Farming culture refuels Yangzhou rural tourism

Visitors walk through groves of dragon fruit trees. [Photo/yznews.com.cn]

Children in Yangzhou excitedly flocked July 7 to the city's western outskirts, a rural enclave where they enjoyed picking vegetables, seeing groves of exotic tropical trees, and having a taste of the area's rustic charm. 

The children were surprised to find out that fruit and vegetables, which are usually served on their dining tables, actually grow on the tree or in the fields. 

"Look, that is where dragon fruits grow," exclaimed Zhang Jie, a primary school student. Though the little girl had done a lot of research about the plant the previous night, she could not help showing her excitement when seeing the juicy red fruits hanging from the cactus-like trees. 

The picking activity was organized by Jiangwang Urban Agricultural Sightseeing Park, a rural enclave named in the hope of throwing farming culture and tourism ideas in the mix to stimulate new possibilities for local development. 

That day, nearly 100 children and their parents attended the activity. Agricultural experts shared their knowledge of farm products and renowned writers guided the children to put their own touching moments down in black and white. 

Zhang Shunrong, a local official, said the park was designed on the theme of farming culture. The cultural exhibition section, along with the picking and planting areas, were quite good options for local families. 

Wang Yan, a local resident, said she has been to the park several times. 

"We can get hands-on experience while learning new knowledge," Wang said. 

Much like Wang, more than 100,000 people have visited the park since June 2, when this year's picking season started. 

The creative combination of farming culture and rural tourism is leading a new way of healthy living in Yangzhou, while the dynamic outcomes conceived will be sure to boost more local development.