From Empty Streets to Buzzing Hub 😊
Just a decade ago, Shanglin Village, nestled along Lake Tai in Suzhou's Wuzhong District, Jiangsu Province in China, was a textbook "hollow village": young people moved to cities, houses stood empty, and the vibe was…well, not vibey. Fast forward to 2025, and the whole place is alive with farmers, artisans, and visitors.
What Sparked the Comeback?
- Community Power – Locals teamed up to restore old homes, start workshops and host cultural events.
- Public-Private Partnerships – Investors and village leaders co-created eco-friendly projects, from tea gardens to art studios.
- Lindu Warm Village Project – A visionary plan that blended tourism, tech and tradition to create jobs and attract crowds.
The Impact by 2025 🌱
- 1 million+ visitors every year
- Per capita income jumped to 45,000 yuan (up 220% since 2015)
- Local startups in agri-tech and crafts are booming
Shanglin's turnaround shows how a clear vision, teamwork and innovation can revive rural areas. It's proof that with the right mix of roots and digital tools, even "ghost villages" can shine bright.
Inspired? Whether you're from a small town or a growing city, Shanglin's journey is a blueprint for sustainable growth and community pride. 🚀
Reference(s):
How 'hollow village' transformed into model of rural revitalization
cgtn.com
