As golden autumn hues blanket Jiangxi Province, Yinhe Town has become an unexpected hotspot for urbanites seeking authentic rural experiences. Thousands of visitors flocked to its terraced fields during the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, participating in paddy field fishing competitions and mud-run challenges that turned agricultural traditions into family-friendly attractions.
The week-long event, strategically timed during peak travel season, demonstrates China's growing rural tourism sector. Visitors from Shanghai and Guangzhou reported spending 40% more per capita compared to standard urban holiday activities, according to local business operators. This surge comes as domestic travelers increasingly prioritize cultural immersion over conventional sightseeing.
"My children finally understand where their rice comes from," said Zhang Wei, a tech worker from Hangzhou, as his family harvested rice bundles under staff guidance. The activities align with national efforts to preserve agricultural heritage while creating economic opportunities for rural communities.
Tourism analysts note such initiatives help redistribute holiday crowds from overcrowded cities to lesser-known regions. Yinhe Town's visitor numbers grew 150% compared to last year's National Day period, with 30% of participants being international tourists exploring China's countryside.
