Striking a Balance: Tourism, business and community spirit co-exist in Hongcun

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HongcunVillage in Anhui Province is a symbol of China's past and future. Past, because of its well-preserved architecture and future, as it tries to adjust to the commercialization. CGTN's Joey Villarama has the story.

Hongcun is home to 150 traditional houses, regarded as the best of their kind in China, whose architecture and carvings date back almost one-thousand years. Most economists believe that tourism is good for a community, as it creates jobs and local businesses.

But it has downsides too -- it damages the local architecture, environment and disrupts residents' lives. That is why local authorities are making sure the village's cultural heritage is preserved, while aggressively promoting it at the same time.

YU BIAO, DIRECTOR HERITAGE OFFICE OF YI COUNTY, ANHUI "In the peak hours, we will limit the number of tourists at Hongcun, where most scenic areas are located. It is inevitable culture relics are greatly affected by climate as most of them are made of wood. Funds from government and society are generated to maintain the relics. But there's still a huge shortfall in funds."

The local tourism board also sees to it that tourism is improving the lives of the residents and not simply making the village more popular.

YU CHENGGANG, DEPUTY DIRECTOR TOURISM DEPARTMENT OF QI COUNTY, ANHUI "Two million people have visited here and 110 million RMB in tourism revenue has been brought to the village since last year. It benefits local residents at the same time."

While tour groups and individual tourists have caused congestion along Hongcun's cobbled streets, some residents still believe tourism and business are necessary to keep the village's legacy alive.

Grey hair lady, restaurant owner "My restaurant is getting better and better. I will continue to make great dishes and attract more customers."

A GIRL WORKS IN A COFFEE SHOP "My husband was born here. I came to work in the coffee shop this year. I hope more people visit here and bring us more revenue."

Most residents don't seem to mind and simply carry on with their everyday chores.

JOEY VILLARAMA HONGCUN, ANHUI PROVINCE This area here is proof that tourism & business and community living can co-exist peacefully. On this side, tourists come in droves to patronize local shops while on this side, residents go about their daily lives. In the end, what is important is to strike a balance. Joey Villarama, CGTN Hongcun, Anhui.