Better Tourism, Better Life, Better World Ep.4: I'm an Actress
CGTN
04:18

The fourth episode takes you to Sanya, a renowned tourist destination in south China's island province of Hainan, where the project to build a "Beautiful Countryside" has not only revitalized impoverished villages, but also created new job opportunities for the local residents.

Huang Jujin, a 30-year-old woman from Zhongliao Village, used to be an ordinary farmer. After she got married, she devoted most of her time to taking care of her children. But now, she has another identity – a performer.

Huang Jinju now works as a performer at the Li Dance and Performing Art Group in Zhongliao Village, Sanya, south China's Hainan Province. /CGTN Photo

Huang Jinju now works as a performer at the Li Dance and Performing Art Group in Zhongliao Village, Sanya, south China's Hainan Province. /CGTN Photo

Zhongliao Village is largely comprised of people of the Li ethnic group. In 2017, the project of building "Beautiful Countryside" was launched here. Since then, its environment and infrastructure have been greatly improved. By integrating the local ethnic charm, Zhongliao now offers visitors a new option when they come to the popular seaside resort of Sanya.

When someone from the Li Dance and Performing Art Group found her, Huang was thrilled to give it a try, but she was also worried. She has been singing and dancing since her childhood, but she wasn't sure if she could earn a stable income. 

At first, there were only four people in the performing group, and their performances and costumes were rather simple. As the local tourism industry took off, more people joined in. Today, they give singing, dancing and instrumental performances every day, and the group now owns over a dozen members.

Tourists join in a typical Li ethnic dance in Zhongliao Village in Sanya, south China's Hainan Province. /VCG Photo

Tourists join in a typical Li ethnic dance in Zhongliao Village in Sanya, south China's Hainan Province. /VCG Photo

Huang never thought she would have such an opportunity to do something she likes, and at the same time, make money to support her family. 

Today their small courtyard is usually packed with tourists when they perform. The increasing number of visitors has brought growing income to the locals. So far, over 200 people in 70 households have benefited. Their total annual income has reached 4.77 million yuan (672,900 U.S. dollars).

The microfilm series "Better Tourism, Better Life, Better World" is co-produced by World Tourism Alliance and CGTN with five episodes in total. 

Check out the previous episodes: Jiangbian Home, Hand in Hand, Heart to Heart, and Nostalgia.