Xiaolu Daxi, a major river in Luting township, Yuyao county, Ningbo, stretches 20.81 kilometers before flowing into the Jiakou Reservoir. [Photo/Ningbo Evening News]

Luting township in Yuyao county, Ningbo has recently emerged as a popular rural tourism destination, and all 12 villages administered by the township have now been designated Zhejiang provincial scenic villages.

Official data show that the township attracted a total of 442,000 visitors in 2019, raking in 84.25 million yuan in revenue. Both the number of tourists and tourist revenue were over 10 percent higher than in the previous year.

This strong growth can be largely attributed to efforts by the local authorities to strengthen environmental conservation.

The rate of forest coverage in the township currently stands at over 85 percent, official data show.

Improvements were also made in the water quality of Xiaolu Daxi, one of Luting's main rivers, which stretches for 20.81 kilometers before flowing into the Jiakou Reservoir.

Strolling along the river has become a popular activity among visitors to the township.

Meanwhile, facilities such as greenways winding along rivers, woods, and tea plantations have been developed to increase the township's tourism appeal.

Longxi village, located in the township, has also established a museum and a plantation for edible wild herbs. People can experience the glories of rural life by taking part in farming activities there.