Citadel of hope

When the village's newly developed scenic areas needed tour guides, she answered the call, and she has worked as a guide in the village since.

On Long's social media, her life looks much like those of any other person of her age, taking selfies, going hiking, or simply making a dinner. What sets her apart is the exquisitely decorated Miao ethnic attire that figures prominently in her social media, proud manifestations of her ethnicity.

Growing up in the Miao ethnic group village she has been immersed in the culture and mastered Miao drumming, an art form that combines drumming with dancing, since she was about 5.

When she returned to the village she started learning Miao embroidery, which has been passed down from ancient times and was conventionally required of females. She is now also a member of the village's Miao embroidery cooperative, working to promote the traditional craft in exhibitions and through sales.

"Embroidery is an important element of the intangible cultural heritage of the Miao people," Long says of why she does Miao embroidery. "Especially now, the number of young people who master the craft is decreasing."

At the embroidery cooperative many members are young university graduates who chose to return to the village, or married women who used to work in cities, but like Long can support their families without being separated from them.

Long's parents also returned to the village recently. The family is now considering opening up its own bed and breakfast to share the happiness of their family reunion with the tourists.