During the bustling Chinese New Year holiday, Yutang Village in Pingtan welcomed a unique group of visitors. Several local homestay owners in Pingtan jointly initiated a rural ramble, a story-sharing tour inviting travelers to explore the village's charm and immerse themselves in its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Zhang Jian (first from left), host of the Sleep by the Sea homestay, leads tourists through Yutang Village. The backdrop of traditional stone houses adds to the picturesque rural scenery.

Zhang Jian, host of the Sleep by the Sea homestay, led the first exciting journey of the new year on the second day of the lunar calendar. Along winding country paths, Zhang Jian transformed into a tour guide, narrating the village's past and present, as well as its architectural styles, with intimate familiarity. Scattered among the village, the distinctive stone houses, or "Shitoucuo," stood as a unique landscape. Originally built to withstand fierce sea winds and waves, they have evolved into symbolic local architecture, carrying countless precious memories of the village.

"The stone houses are not only our homes but also a source of new vitality as some have transformed into homestays," Zhang Jian explained. He plans to enrich Yutang Village with diverse cultural content, transforming houses with stunning natural views into ideal spaces integrating living, work, and tourism.

You Sheng (third from left), host of the Seashore Islet Seaview homestay, shares stories of Yutang Village with tourists.

On the fourth day of the new year, You Sheng, host of the Seashore Islet Seaview homestay, took over the "baton," guiding visitors through the village's charming scenery. "Look, this row of stone houses is well-preserved," he said, introducing Yutang Village's 200-year-old history and its status as one of Pingtan's best-preserved stone villages.

"These stone houses were once our homes, and now some have become homestays, preserving both memories and new life. They are the soul of Yutang Village and Pingtan's unique charm," You Sheng elaborated. As a native, he shared anecdotes and photo spots, making tourists feel at home.

Tang, a tourist from Jiangsu, who had been in Pingtan for three days, raved about her experience. "Walking in Yutang Village brought me unprecedented peace and deeper connection to Pingtan's history and culture. My 'work fatigue'  just melted away.

Lin Wen (left), host of the Leisure Time homestay, explains the history of windmills and wind power in Pingtan.

On the fifth day, Lin Wen, host of the Leisure Time homestay and a native of Yutang Village, continued the tour. Standing in front of his homestay overlooking the sea, he recounted the story of wind power in Pingtan. "Windmills are not only a beautiful sight but also a valuable resource bestowed by nature. The development of wind power is a microcosm of Pingtan's modern progress," Lin Wen said.

Leveraging the advantages of the Northern Ecological Corridor, Yutang Village has transformed from an obscure fishing village into a tourism hotspot. The thriving homestay industry is a testament to this transformation. Formerly reliant on fishing, villagers have found new paths to prosperity by turning their homes into unique accommodations, offering cozy stays and attentive services.