New professional youth shape a different countryside

In a recent interview, we delved into the transformative impact that emerging professions are having in rural China, focusing on the experiences of villagers and young professionals.

One notable individual is Du Jiwei, the manager of “Peach Creek Mountain Residence” in Tongjing Town, Yinan County, Shandong Province. During the bustling National Day holiday, he found his establishment completely booked, sharing that such enthusiastic crowds have become a norm during holiday seasons. “It’s a testament to the vibrancy of rural tourism now,” he remarked.

In Sichuan Province, Long Qiang, a rural planner in Shizhong Town’s Qianfeng Village, has revitalized a previously impoverished community into a thriving tourist destination. Through renovation and thoughtful updates, he has transformed Qianfeng Village into an immersive cultural and tourism experience, turning it into a “back garden” for city dwellers.

Meanwhile, in Mingyue Village, also in Sichuan, a cultural renaissance is underway, guided by rural planner Deng Xiaoling. The village has seen the emergence of studios specializing in ceramics, tea, and painting, attracting visitors eager to immerse themselves in its unique artistic scene.

In Guangzhou’s Zengcheng District, we spoke with Shen Xiaofen, a certified drone pilot specializing in agricultural pest control. During the bustling holiday period, she took a moment to admire the thriving crops on local farms. Prior to the holiday rush, she had conducted extensive pest management using her drone, showcasing the innovative approaches that young professionals are bringing to agriculture.

These new roles—like rural planners, drone operators, and accommodation managers—offer hope for rural development. Young professionals are leveraging their skills and knowledge to enhance the aesthetics of these areas and reshape their developmental paths, actively contributing to rural revitalization.

When asked about sustainable development in rural planning, Deng Xiaoling underscored the importance of building self-sustaining communities. “Our aim is to discover viable pathways for industrial growth within these villages,” she explained. Since becoming one of Chengdu’s first rural planners in 2010, she has led Mingyue Village’s transformation into an internationally recognized destination for ceramic arts. It stands as a model for marrying traditional industries with tourism.

Challenging the notion that rural planners merely replace old buildings with new ones, Long Qiang explained the depth of the role. It encompasses balancing development, ecological restoration, and cultural preservation. His detailed planning has made Qianfeng Village an appealing spot for urban residents, blending modern agriculture with tourism.

Reflecting on her journey, Shen Xiaofen spoke about returning to her rural roots after university. Inspired by her father, who has dedicated decades to agricultural machinery, she recognized the immense potential for growth and innovation in these areas. “The agricultural industry holds great promise, and with the right strategies, it can yield substantial rewards,” she noted. Her optimism resonates with many of her peers, who are also returning home for similar reasons.

Lastly, Du Jiwei, who oversees various operational aspects of the guesthouse, aspires to position rural areas as attractive places to visit and settle. After transitioning from management roles in star-rated hotels in Qingdao back to his hometown, he’s passionate about showcasing the beauty and culture of his surroundings to visitors. “I strive to be an ambassador of local culture and an advocate for enjoyable living experiences,” Du stated.

Through these conversations, it’s evident that these emerging and dynamic professions are reshaping the rural landscape in China, fostering not just economic growth but also cultural and social revitalization.