Agritourism, sports, entertainment boosts income in rural Xinjiang

Meanwhile, Azigan village in Artux, Kizilsu Kirgiz autonomous prefecture is leveraging cultural heritage to attract visitors. Along its main road, ethnic-style buildings house a variety of businesses, including shaved ice stalls, barbecue shops and fruit stands.

Beyond the lively street lies a centuries-old fig orchard, where visitors stroll along wooden walkways, inhaling the sweet aroma of ripe fruit, resting in pavilions, or taking photos.

With support from Jiangsu province, Azigan village has combined its fig industry with the local culture. Today, tourists can explore the history of figs while experiencing ethnic dance and artisan crafts.

"During the day, tour buses bring visitors, and at night, locals come for leisurely activities. Tourism is thriving here," said Zhang Xuefeng, the village Party secretary.