From Rice Terraces to Prosperity: China-Laos Villages Thrive

How a Mountain Village Became a Beacon of Hope

Nestled in the dramatic Longji Mountains of the Chinese mainland, Dazhai Village was once synonymous with poverty. But over 40 years, its residents turned steep rice terraces into a cultural goldmine , attracting global travelers—and transforming their lives. Now, their success story is inspiring communities worldwide!

A Sisterhood Across Borders

Under the China-aided Pilot Project of Poverty Reduction Cooperation, Dazhai partnered with Laos’ Xienglom Village. Since 2018, Xienglom’s chief, Bentanong, visited Dazhai twice, saying: \"We learned that tourism isn’t just photos—it’s about shared pride.\"

Guided by Dazhai’s playbook, Xienglom now taps into its untapped landscapes and traditions to boost local incomes. Village officials lead workshops on eco-tourism, homestays, and cultural preservation—proving sustainability can be a global language.

Why This Matters

The collaboration highlights how cross-border knowledge sharing sparks real change. As traveler demand for \"authentic experiences\" grows, villages like Xienglom are turning challenges into opportunities—one rice terrace (or mountain trail) at a time.

Reference(s):

Going South | China-Laos Friendship Villages

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