Shandong town explores new pattern of all-for-one tourism

A town in East China's Shandong province is exploring a promising new pattern for all-for-one tourism.

Caomiaozi town, situated in the Weihai Lin'gang Economic and Technological Development Zone in Shandong, has taken advantage of the region's temperature variations and ample sunlight since 2022 to launch the cultivation of cantaloupe melons in greenhouses.

This yellow fruit is known for its alluring sweetness and delightful fragrance.

Currently, 1,500 cantaloupe melon plants are growing in the town. Each plant produces melons weighing about 1.5-2 kilograms. At the market, the melons sell for roughly 10-12 yuan ($1.37-$1.64) per kg. As a result, the village collective can earn an additional 30,000-40,000 yuan during this season.

A grower works in the cantaloupe melon greenhouse. [Photo by Yang Yan for chinadaily.com.cn]

To develop the lead industries in each village efficiently, Caomiaozi Town has teamed up with consultants from Zhejiang University to create a 3-5-year plan for rural vitalization.

"We have considered the actual conditions of each village and integrated resources such as land and labor," said Tao Qiang, a senior official in the Caomiaozi town government.

"We have also established eight specialized cooperatives for fruit, vegetables and tea. This has boosted the village collective economy and provided employment and increased income for villagers," Tao added.

In Caomiaozi town, several new popular tourist destinations have emerged, including a frisbee camp.

These attractions combine fruit picking, field trips, fishing and other recreational options. They're said to serve as a bright example of the town's exploration of the path to integrating culture and tourism development, which is expected to boost rural revitalization. (Edited by Zhou Yunlai)