What does a modern, civilized village look like? It is not just clean roads and new buildings – it is a community built on shared values. On July 16, the second conference on social etiquette and civility in rural areas opened in Linyi, East China's Shandong province, showcasing how two local villages are beautifully blending heritage with modern innovation to reshape rural life.

Historical sites in Zhucun village, Linyi, Shandong province, are transformed into rural tourism destinations, boosting local development. [Photo/Qilu Evening News]

Zhucun village: Living history, shared prosperity

In Zhucun, a historic village known for its rich revolutionary heritage, residents still honor an 82-year-old Chinese New Year tradition: offering their first bowl of fresh dumplings to heroes who protected the village during the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931–45).

This deep sense of community has fueled the village's modern success. By transforming historical sites into vibrant rural tourism destinations, Zhucun village now welcomes 600,000 visitors annually. In 2025, the village's collective income exceeded 1.5 million yuan (around $221,411). Residents currently enjoy many urban-style conveniences, with clinics, schools, and markets just a short walk away.

The entrance to Daicun village in Linyi, Shandong province. [Photo/Qilu Evening News]

Daicun village: Simpler celebrations, redefining tradition

In Daicun village, the focus is on easing the financial pressure created by traditional customs. By establishing shared banquet halls and setting common-sense limits on wedding spending, the village has saved families over 20 million yuan. Friendly competition is encouraged through a credit-based reward system that converts neighborly, virtuous deeds into practical daily rewards.