Kaiyang integrates culture and tourism to drive rural growth

In 2025, Kaiyang county in Guiyang, capital of Southwest China's Guizhou province, has been advancing the integration of culture and tourism to boost rural development, upgrade industries, and raise incomes.

In Xinhua village, Fengsan town, traditional farming culture is attracting visitors through interactive experiences like rice transplanting festivals, dragon dances, and glutinous rice cake making, increasing the village's visibility and appeal.

Two bulls lock horns on the sands in Kaiyang county. [Photo/WeChat account of Kaiyang county]

The county has established 28 demonstration sites featuring a circular agriculture model consisting of pig farming, manure reuse, and vegetable cultivation. By combining agricultural education, ethnic festivals, and traditional culture, Kaiyang is exploring new ways to merge agriculture, culture, and tourism while expanding villagers' income sources.

To promote Shuidong culture, the county has built exhibition halls and public spaces and launched original cultural works to shape a strong cultural identity.

Red tourism is also growing. At the Chashanguan revolutionary site, immersive educational programs like live-action classrooms are being rolled out. By aligning cultural tourism with local industries, Kaiyang is fueling sustainable rural growth.