Tourism is another new source of income. Xiaogang is a so-called "Red Tourism" base, and was named by the provincial Tourism Bureau as a "Happy Rural Families" tourism model village.

Guan Youjiang has set up a voluntary tourism service association with six local families.

Guan said: "The association provides visitors with free guide. We will tell them about our history, local agricultural production and our food. I have opened a small restaurant to serve our guests. Of course, meals are not free, but it's very cheap and good. And it earns some extra money for me."

Guan Youjiang's small family restaurant. (China.org.cn / WANG Ke)

Guan's family member is cooking the sweet and sour pork. (China.org.cn / WANG Ke)

Guan is not alone. Other villagers have opened convenience stores, food stands and other small businesses.

Thirty years ago, Xiaogang Village was the birthplace of Chinese rural reform; 30 years later, residents still know where they are going.

(China.org.cn December 15, 2008)