The fruit of prosperity

Over the past three decades, the gourd has significantly boosted the man's annual income as well as brought prosperity to other villagers, who were taught by Yao.

The village is now recognized as a model for village revitalization and is aiming to become an ecological agricultural complex in the near future.

"We will definitely consider cultivating new varieties of gourds. Our village also plans to set up a gourd studio because innovation is very important," said Yao, adding that the village will grow new kinds of gourds every year to cater to the demand for variety.

Yao said he hopes to leave a legacy behind with his gourds.

"Hundreds of years later, when people see the gourds, they may think of Baoshan and me," he said.

Yang Hong contributed to the story.