#China #Hunan Province #Changsha #VOC.com.cn #Rural Revitalization

My Date with Rural China: Unraveling the Wonders of Hunan

The modern rural revitalization strategy in China is telling a powerful story of change and growth. This transformation is not only seen in bustling cities but is also taking root in the countryside. VOC.com.cn recently premiered the second season of its hit series, I Am in Rural China, inviting a broader audience to experience the country's heartland. The latest season sees international guest Teona Kvartskhava venture through the enchanting villages of Hunan Province, camouflaging captivating slices of rural life with each episode.

The series opens with Teona's venture into the rice fields of Hunan, recognized as the largest rice producer in China. The first surprise for her was the aroma of fresh rice, a staple she wasn’t overly familiar with prior to her travels. In Qunle Village in Changde's Lixian County, she partakes in the Double Rush, a time-honored agricultural practice reflecting tradition and communal effort, now aided by modern technology. This remarkable shift highlights how innovation is increasingly integrated into age-old customs, showcasing the seamless blend of past and future.

After experiencing Lixian County, Teona's culinary adventure brings her to Rucheng, another southern Hunan locale known for its spicy cuisine. Here, she unearthed the depth of Hunan's love for peppery flavors, a unique feature of the region's identity. Jingpo Town, well-known for producing the blisteringly hot red cluster peppers, provided her with another layer of local culture. From mingling with the locals in a vibrant market to exploring pepper plantations and modern processing facilities, she witnessed how the town transformed into a lively hub of activity, driven by agriculture.

Despite the agricultural prowess, it was the cultural richness of this ancient land that stood out. Hunan also boasts a heritage of papermaking, which was highlighted in a visit to Shanghong Village in Liuyang. There, Teona had the opportunity to learn about traditional craftsmanship from two local masters specializing in Gushan Tribute Paper and Floral Paper. The ancient techniques still in practice left her spellbound, as she physically engaged in creating her first pieces of paper. It was akin to watching history unfold right at her fingertips, emphasizing the blend of culture and creativity that thrives in Hunan.

The essence of rural China, as portrayed through Teona's eyes, speaks volumes about its hospitable people, agricultural abundance, and deep-rooted cultural heritage. It’s a place woven with stories waiting to be told, bringing together hospitality, flavor, and traditions that form the fabric of everyday life. The series not only showcases Hunan’s culinary delights but also paints a comprehensive portrait of a society anchored in its history while embracing modernity. Each village she visits encapsulates unique elements that contribute to a larger narrative of evolution and growth.

As we look forward to more episodes, viewers around the world can anticipate richer explorations of communities that embody the interesting juxtaposition of rural and modern life, further revealing the captivating charm of China’s countryside.