Hebian Village, a China-Laos Border Community, Presents a New Model for Rural Development by Integrating Tourism and Agriculture

Hebian Village, a Yao community located in Mengla County, Yunnan Province, is emerging as a model for rural revitalization. By combining tourism, traditional culture, and agriculture, the village has transformed itself from poverty, demonstrating a unique path to sustainable development through community-led initiatives and youth empowerment.

Sun Apr 26 2026

Hebian Village's Successful Rural Revitalization Model

Hebian Village, situated in Mengla County, Yunnan Province, near the China-Laos border, is a Yao ethnic group settlement. Once isolated in the mountains and lagging in development, Hebian Village has recently transformed into a popular tourist destination by integrating tourism, traditional culture, and homestay businesses. The village preserves its traditional Yao wooden house structures while incorporating modern elements, collaborating with universities on architectural design. This approach showcases a blend of heritage and contemporary living.

Community-Led Cooperative Management and Improved Livelihoods

The homestay business in Hebian Village is centrally managed by a cooperative run by five young villagers, including general manager Zhou Zhixue. Unlike other village cooperatives often managed by external companies, Hebian's cooperative is run by its residents, with all income reinvested within the village. This strengthens community ties and significantly improves residents' quality of life. The average household income surged from around 10,000 yuan (approximately $1,400) in 2015 to about 60,000 yuan (approximately $8,400) today.

Efforts to Attract Tourists and Sustainable Development

Zhou Zhiqiang, Zhou Zhixue's younger brother, works as a vlogger, documenting and promoting the village's changes to the outside world. Villagers have also developed eco-tourism products, such as wild elephant treks, leveraging their natural resources. They supplement their income by harvesting rubber and engaging in integrated farming, diversifying their revenue streams. These efforts provide job opportunities for the younger generation and prevent urban migration. The opening of the China-Laos Railway further boosts tourist influx, promoting sustainable development in the village.

*Source: YouTube: CGTN (2026-04-26)*

Tags: #HebianVillage #RuralTourism #YaoEthnicGroup #RuralRevitalization #ChineseAgriculture #Homestay