Authors: Wang Yuchen, Liang Jianbin, Lian Xinzan, Lv Peiyao, Hu Yang, Liu Yuhan, He Yong, Tao Linziqi, Chen Yingxi, Liu Xinyu

Publisher: Jinan University's First Elite Class of Integrated Media  

Date: September 13, 2024

From July 14th to 17th, the Jixuan Xinghuo practical team, composed of 10 members from the first Integrated Media Elite Class at Jinan University, undertook social practice research in Su Lao Village, located in Luofushan, Boluo County, Huizhou City, Guangdong Province. The team engaged extensively with the local community, exploring the integration and development of agriculture, culture, and tourism.

(The practice team arrives at Luofushan Station)

(The practice team commemorates the occasion with a group photo alongside the staff of the Su Lao Village Committee.)

Research Activities and Methodology

The practical team visited various sites within the village—fields, cultural relics, and tourist attractions—while conducting interviews with village officials, residents, tourists, and industry leaders. Their research employed on-site visits, in-depth interviews, and questionnaire surveys to gain a comprehensive understanding of the local development landscape. The overarching goal was to explore new avenues for promoting the deep integration of agriculture, culture, and tourism in partnership with local stakeholders. This initiative is also part of the broader Double Hundred Action aimed at enhancing collaboration between universities and local communities.

Insights into Su Lao Village

Su Lao Village, known for its picturesque natural scenery and rich agricultural produce, has been designated as a tourism characteristic village by the Boluo County Government. Nestled in the northeast of Luofu Mountain, the village spans an area of 14.5 square kilometers and hosts a population of over 2,000 across 15 natural villages. The village is renowned for its lush landscapes, pristine streams, and vibrant local customs, often likened to a paradise reminiscent of Tao Yuanming's poetic descriptions. Notable local delicacies include crispy fermented bacon, crispy fermented vegetables, mugwort, and Luofushan sweet tea.

(Aerial views of Su Lao Village)

Upon arrival, the practice team quickly engaged with villagers to investigate the current state of agricultural production. Through immersive experiences, team members learned about traditional planting methods and the exceptional quality of local agricultural products, which are popular among tourists. They conducted questionnaire surveys that provided essential data on local economic conditions and per capita annual income for farmers.

(Members of the practice team conduct a questionnaire survey on villagers)

(Members of the practice team conduct interviews with villagers)

(The homestay owner is interviewed)

Cultural Heritage Exploration

The team also delved into the historical context of Su Lao Village by visiting cultural heritage sites, including the Su Lao Temple, which boasts over 1,600 years of history. Situated against a backdrop of green mountains, this temple features various significant structures. During their visit, the team interviewed Taoist priest Gao Haolin, uncovering the deep-rooted historical connections between Jinan University and the temple itself, particularly through the figure of Chen Botao, a pivotal person in Jinan's education history.

(Chen Botao)

(Su Lao Temple)

Tourism Development Initiatives

In addition to agricultural insights, the team assessed the potential for rural tourism in Su Lao Village. The village is transforming its existing rural tourism frameworks, such as the Senle Camp, catering to urban dwellers seeking natural retreats. Visitors can enjoy activities like water play, barbecuing, and camping, which enhance their connection to nature. The village leaders expressed hopes for more support in promotion, policy implementation, and funding to sustain these initiatives.

(The practice team interview Xu Runtian, the head of Senle Camp.)

Further exploration of the broader environment revealed the national 5A-rated Luofu Mountain Scenic Area, rich in natural beauty and cultural significance. Under the guidance of area managers, the team experienced the diverse attractions and scenic views that the region offers, reinforcing Su Lao Village's position as a desired destination for tourists.

(Overlooking Su Lao Village from Luofu Mountain)

Building a Vision for the Future

The practice team engaged in discussions with local leaders, including Wang Peng, captain of the Double Hundred Action team, and Zhu Wenbin from the Changning Town Party Committee. They highlighted that while Su Lao Village possesses unique advantages for the integration of agriculture, culture, and tourism, challenges remain, such as high production costs and inadequate sales channels.

(Wang is interviewed.)

(Zhu is interviewed.)

To overcome these obstacles, they called for tailored development policies, the promotion of homestay and cultural tourism economies, and the establishment of a digital collaboration platform. The collective aim is to harness resources and initiate projects that foster high-quality development across the area.

Next Steps

Moving forward, the practice team plans to compile an in-depth feasibility study report based on their findings, which will explore new strategies for integrating agriculture, culture, and tourism. Additionally, they will create promotional materials, including text and video content, to raise awareness of local offerings, as well as develop cultural products to enhance Su Lao Village's unique identity and visibility in the marketplace.