Red tourism shakes off shadow cast by COVID-19

Some of Shen's guests are foreigners with a deep respect for Mao Zedong, who want to see where he lived during his youth.

Shen said he was especially impressed when a young girl from Jiangmen, Guangdong province, told him stories of Mao Zedong and recited his poems.

Many young people also visit Shaoshan because they want to learn about Mao Zedong, and try to emulate his greatness, Shen said.

"I was born in Shaoshan, and the lullabies I listened to in my childhood were all revolutionary songs, so my feeling for Mao is deeper than most people of my generation," he said.

The homestay initially only had five rooms, but Shen later added another six. It also offers catering services to travelers.

Shen said revenue from the business is expected to reach more than 600,000 yuan this year.

"Chairman Mao has blessed Shaoshan. He has saved us and benefited us. If it were not for him, no one would know anything about Shaoshan," he added.

zoushuo@chinadaily.com.cn