Sanya’s Yaliang village: Blending ecological conservation with economic growth

Yaliang village, a picturesque Li ethnic community in Yucai Ecological Zone in Sanya, South China's Hainan province, is thriving as a model of ecological and economic vitality.

Nestled beside the tranquil Dalong Reservoir, the village benefits from the nurturing waters of the Ningyuan River, which have sustained its people for generations and invigorated local industries like mango cultivation.

A key feature of Yaliang village is the Yaliang Bridge, a vital 1,214-meter-long structure completed in 2007. It has transformed local life by connecting the village to broader regions, significantly enhancing transportation and economic development.

"The bridge has made it so much easier for us to transport our mangoes and other goods," said Zhou Zhiwen, a former local school principal. The bridge has not only reduced travel time but also boosted the efficiency of transporting local produce to distant markets, he said.

Yaliang village is also home to over 40 ancient mango trees, some more than 300 years old, which are carefully protected and celebrated as symbols of cultural heritage and agricultural prosperity. These trees are pivotal to the village's mango industry, providing robust seedlings for extensive cultivation. "These ancient trees are the heart of our mango production," says Zhou Yongdong, Party chief of the village.

Recent beautification efforts have transformed Yaliang into a model of rural vitalization, with improved infrastructure and vibrant cultural displays attracting tourists eager to experience its natural and cultural offerings.

The village's clean streets, adorned with murals depicting local culture, are a testament to the community's commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modernity.

As Yaliang continues to grow, it remains a testament to sustainable rural development. The village plans to further enhance its mango industry by developing a "heritage mango" brand, aiming to increase the value of its produce and lead residents toward greater prosperity.

A countryside road in Yaliang village. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_4ef8af99ec32]