Cultural tourism empowers rural vitalization in Shandong district

A tourist attraction repurposed from an old factory in Laiwu district, Jinan, East China's Shandong province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Laiwu district in Jinan, East China's Shandong province, is driving rural vitalization through the comprehensive development of rural tourism offerings and infrastructure upgrades.

At the site of the former Shandong People's Printing Factory in the district, old factory buildings with a nostalgic charm have been transformed into bookstores. Decades-old work sites and living scenes have been recreated for visitors to experience firsthand.

"We have upgraded all the factory buildings through scene reconstruction, highlighting interactive experiences, turning the project into an immersive and participatory cultural tourism experience," said a project leader.

In a workshop within the 709 Industrial Park, over 260 villagers produce traditional ornaments that are sold nationwide. Visitors can also engage in traditional crafts such as Laiwu tin carving and woodcut New Year print making.

"I never expected that pictures printed with woodblocks could be so exquisite. It's really fulfilling," exclaimed Zhang Xinyi, who came to experience the traditional craftsmanship.

To date, Laiwu has launched five red culture-themed tourism routes connecting dozens of villages. Additionally, the local government has implemented 53 infrastructure projects to make the rural environment more attractive. (Edited by Li Weiwei)