'Diaohong' persimmon in Shilin village

Ripe persimmon hangs from an old tree in Shilin village, Yuyao county, Ningbo, East China's Zhejiang province. [Photo/cnnb.com.cn]

Shilin, located in Yuyao city, Ningbo, is a traditional village with a history of more than 600 years.

The ancient village, due to its congenial climate and soil conditions, is renowned for its "diaohong", a local variety of persimmon.

The fruit is famous for its bright color and soft texture. It has been grown in Shilin for more than 400 years. 

Diaohong literally means "hanging red", as the fruit turns red as it ripens while hanging from a tree. 

Shilin village currently has over 200 mu (13.3 hectares) reserved for the growing of persimmon, with an annual output of more than 100,000 kilograms.

The fruit can either be eaten directly, processed into cakes and sauces, or be used to make liquor.