Yueba village in autumn. [Photo by unspecified photographer]

Changes in the village began after local leaders took a study trip to Yucun village in Huzhou, Zhejiang province. Embracing the concept that "green mountains and clear water are equal to mountains of gold and silver", they relocated residents, created reservoirs from abandoned lands, and turned marshy areas into picturesque alpine lakes. Within months, "Jinyue Lake" emerged, named for the moon so large and close it seems to cradle the village.

The village's scenic beauty and holistic wellness tourism plan quickly attracted visitors. In just five years, daily tourist numbers have grown from under 1,000 to over 10,000, while the resort area expanded from 46.67 to 100 hectares.

"Look, that's our famous homestay," said Yang Xiulin, a local villager now employed in the scenic area.

Tourists can hike around the lake, enjoy authentic dishes and immerse themselves in the village's rustic charm.

"Visitors leave happy, and they love the food too," Yang added.