As part of the country’s rural development plan, the vacation rental economy in China is seeing a resurgence in popularity as it diversifies its business model. After a decade of price wars due to identical development of rural homestays, now there are some 300,000 vacation rentals. Operators have realized that guests prefer a distinctive experience that allows exploration of local culture and customs, which has encouraged official recognition of the sector. Owners now provide tailored services for different age categories, highlight rural ways of life, offer local cuisines and demonstrate their daily lives by staying with their guests. Given the booming industry, many young people have moved from cities back to rural areas to work in these lucrative family businesses. The unique rural life also attracts foreign tourists. Experts believe that provided indigenous legacies are well preserved, vacation rentals can maintain a strong competitive edge in the tourism industry.
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