Rising rural tourism lifts villages

The fad for rural tourism in China has brought fame and fortune to many fishing villages in Pingtan, Fujian province, with many people who left the islands years ago returning to their hometowns to set up businesses in recent years.

Lin Shaoning, from Baisheng village in Baiqing township, is one of these returnees.

Lin used to run a restaurant serving authentic Pingtan cuisine in Beijing, and achieved huge success. But the call of his hometown was too strong to resist.

"Baisheng village is where I grew up and I am sentimentally attached to the place," said Lin. "I shall play my part in boosting the village's development."

The former Beijinger plans to build a photography base in the village and host a series of artistic and cultural activities to raise the village's profile as a seaside resort.

Located in the northern part of Pintan Island, Baisheng is a rustic fishing village with unspoiled enchanting views. To its west is Jianfeng Mountain, while east lies the Taiwan Strait.

Many of the stone houses in Baisheng village are built in the distinctive style for which Pingtan, Fujian province, is famous. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]