Thriving homestays boost rural tourism development

Over the past year, Zheng has organized six homestay skills training sessions, providing on-site guidance to 18 such businesses in the area. Some 500 homestay operators have visited his business to receive field training.

Zheng said he was thrilled to see 30 homestays opening in Jinzhai after his arrival, adding that service quality has improved significantly. "The going price for local homestays has risen by 30 percent," he added.

These positive changes have earned Zheng recognition and compliments from the villagers.

"This genuine gratitude and respect from others is quite precious, and something I rarely felt in big cities," Zheng said.

As he has settled down, he enjoys more time with his family members, who are becoming fond of the homestay.

"My son has made many friends through my business, and he enjoys going door to door visiting households in the neighborhood," said Zheng, who has developed a healthier lifestyle.

"I quit drinking after work, and instead take a walk in the mountains. I feel good being close to nature, going to bed early and getting up early," he said.