Shibadong Village, nestled in central China’s Hunan Province, has just been named one of the “Best Tourism Villages” by the United Nations World Tourism Organization in its 2024 selection. This 400-year-old village, primarily inhabited by the Miao ethnic group, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.
With forests covering 80% of its land, Shibadong offers breathtaking scenery and a glimpse into the profound traditions of the Miao people. Visitors can experience intangible cultural heritage projects like the Ganqiu Festival, a traditional Miao celebration welcoming the arrival of autumn.
In recent years, Shibadong has revitalized its cultural resources by renovating ancient Miao dwellings and pathways, and introducing cultural experiences such as Miao embroidery workshops, agritourism, and traditional homestays. These initiatives not only preserve the local culture but also provide unique experiences for tourists.
Notably, Shibadong was the birthplace of China’s targeted poverty alleviation strategy in 2013. Since then, the village has developed industries like tourism, bottled mineral water, and Miao embroidery, helping residents become self-sufficient and attracting over 200 young people back to the village to work in the growing tourism sector.
In 2023, Shibadong welcomed more than 800,000 tourists and generated nearly 20 million yuan (about $2.8 million) in tourism revenue. The village stands as a shining example of rural revitalization, contributing to global poverty reduction and sustainable development.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
