Strawberry picking ignites rural tourism

Visitors pick strawberries in the strawberry greenhouse. [Photo by Li Li for chinadaily.com.cn]

Winter is the season when greenhouse strawberries hit the market. Many residents of Dingtao district in Heze, Shandong province have been flocking to the strawberry gardens to pick strawberries and experience rural life.

Venturing into the strawberry picking gardens of Jiangzhuang village, Fangshan town, Dingtao district, red and white strawberries as far as the eye can see are nestled among the green leaves, exuding a sweet and rich fragrance. 

Groups of tourists carefully pick fresh strawberries among the furrows, occasionally filling the air with bursts of laughter and joy.

"Coming to the strawberry garden today has truly broadened my horizons. This is my first time seeing white strawberries, and its texture is truly delightful. I picked a large basket to take home, so family can taste them," said visitor Zhang Fenghuan.

In order to cater to the diverse needs of tourists, this year, in addition to the traditional "red beauty" and "cream" strawberry varieties, the picking garden has also planted the "white snow rabbit" variety. 

All varieties have now reached maturity, with locals earning money not only by inviting visitors to pick them, but also selling them directly on the market. Each day, a significant number of visitors visit the garden. (Edited by Huang Junyao)