Natural habitats

The country's rural areas received 3.09 billion traveler visits in 2019, accounting for more than half of the domestic market, the China Tourism Academy reports.

To date, rural tourism has recovered to 92 percent of that 2019 figure, according to Trip.com Group.

Like Gao, Jiang Tao also has faith in rural tourism and has managed to keep his head above water over the past two years.

Jiang has been running a rural getaway in Wangwushan scenic spot in Jiyuan, Henan province, since late 2019.

"We have received a good number of visitors during major holidays, such as Labor Day and National Day," Jiang says.

Most guests are from the city and are drawn to the rural homestay to get in touch with nature and relieve the pressures of urban life, he explains.

Travelers enjoy 24-hour butler service at the homestay and can fully customize their travel experience.

Jiang has 20 years of hotel management under his belt and says the biggest difference about running a homestay is ensuring the guests feel like they are at home.

Jiang says local governments also make great efforts to promote rural tourism.

In 2018, Henan culture and tourism bureau encouraged owners of old local residences to transform them into quality homestay venues.

Jiang's place has 22 employees, most of whom are local villagers.

"They are all down-to-earth, enthusiastic and love their jobs," he says.

"It is real life here, full of rural charm."

The latest wave of COVID-19 cases has forced Jiang to step up his pandemic control and prevention efforts in his homestay operations. He has also encouraged other employees to do livestreaming and have a go at selling local specialities online during the tough times.

"It's a relief to see everyone on the mountain doing their best, and things will surely get back to normal," Jiang says.