The Rudong section of the Grand Canal. [Photo/WeChat account: rudongfb]

Bencha Ancient Town in Rudong has successfully leveraged its unique location along the Grand Canal to create jobs for over 1,000 villagers.

The town's distinctive local businesses, such as sugar painting and traditional baked goods, have attracted a large number of tourists. While there are many ancient towns across the country, Bencha's proximity to the canal gives it a special appeal.

To capitalize on its canal, the town has focused on two main strategies: establishing a culinary identity to draw visitors with its local specialties, and developing a vibrant night economy. By creatively transforming the canal with boat tours, light shows, and boat performances, the town has drawn significant attention, welcoming over 130,000 visitors during the holiday period. This canal-driven tourism approach has not only enriched the lives of local residents but also boosted the economy for those living along the river.

Chen Pengfei, a well-known sheep farmer in Yangkou town, invested 3 million yuan ($421,990) in a farm where he refined his methods, such as improving feed and separating wet and dry sheep bedding. His efforts resulted in superior lambs, each weighing 5 kilograms more than average and with better quality and taste.

Looking to expand his market presence, Chen saw the growing tourism along the canal as an opportunity. He organizes tasting events in the tourist area and supplies local restaurants with his lamb. These moves have helped him gain recognition and tap into the flourishing tourism market.