Rural communities in Linyi, East China's Shandong province, are seeing tangible improvements in industry development and infrastructure as local industries create new sources of income and transform villagers' lives.

In Linshu county, willow weaving has become a key industry for locals. With a full production chain from planting to sales, it has improved the livelihoods of about 100,000 people. In Zhucun village, willow weaving and tourism increased collective income from less than 300,000 yuan ($44,320) in 2013 to more than 1.5 million yuan in 2025.

In Mengyin county, vacant houses have been renovated into homestays. In Shuilianyu village, seven courtyards rebuilt from idle properties now provide rental income for villagers. Currently, Linyi's 7,151 villages have been integrated into 639 blocks to better coordinate resources.

Idle properties in Mengyin county, Linyi, Shandong province, are renovated into brand-new courtyards. [Photo/Dazhong News]

With rising incomes, people are also enjoying more rewarding cultural lives. For instance, 70-year-old Wang Xianshun from Mengyin county has formed a band with other music lovers. Using instruments made from everyday items, they write songs about the changes these villages are experiencing.

By combining industrial growth with cultural engagement, Linyi is making rural communities more vibrant and prosperous.