"If you work as a security guard, you make 2,000 yuan a month. A janitor can earn 1,200 and even someone who picks up empty bottles and sells them to recycling centers can bring home 600 to 700 yuan," Yang said. "We disclose the finances to all villagers, and they see their hope here."

With rising incomes, the village is attracting its own people back from working as migrant workers. There are already 20 or so retailers catering to the emerging tourism market. Taxes have been waived for the first few years as an incentive for entrepreneurship.

As well as more than two dozens boats of various sizes, Shengli owns and operates a luxury cruiser equipped with air-conditioners and flush toilets, bought at a cost of 700,000 yuan.

"The tourism authority chipped in 1 million yuan, the religious bureau 300,000 yuan, and the district government 1.2 million yuan, but the bulk of the investment for infrastructure came from our own pockets," Yang said proudly.

"We'll launch water weddings and night tours, plus many other fun activities that can take place in a wetland," he said. "Whatever the size of the boat or the background you want for your event, we can provide it."

There are even grander plans for the village, too: While the wetland will be strictly protected, the village itself will build facilities that cater to high-end travelers.

A proposal by a large developer to build two five-star hotels has been approved, with 10 billion to 15 billion yuan going into the projects. Most of the 500 to 600 jobs created will be local hires.

"Outside businesses are welcome to make money here," said Daowai official Shang Li, "but the bottom line is that our villagers should prosper first."