Baimu township in southern Wuyi on an autumn day. [Photo/Jinhua News Media Center]
Baimu township in southern Wuyi is leveraging its natural environment and local produce to advance rural development.
The area reported 1,905 metric tons of tea and 943 tons of medicinal crops so far this year, up 7.17 percent and 15.88 percent year-on-year, respectively. Visitor arrivals exceeded 250,000, supporting growth in agriculture and tourism.
Tea remains a major industry. In Wannei village, bamboo groves and hillside tea fields have been used to create tea-tasting spaces that attract travelers seeking seasonal brews. Local growers have refined processing techniques for black tea to improve its flavor and stability. The township is also working with tea businesses, cooperatives and livestreaming hosts to expand sales channels through short videos and online sessions.
Baimu is also known for bullfighting, a traditional rural event held each year on the sixth day of the 10th lunar month in Houshu village. This year, more than 50 bulls competed in front of large crowds. The township combined the event with a rural market, opera performances, and produce displays, helping increase audience engagement. Online broadcasts received more than 50,000 views, raising the profile of the mountain community.
To improve market access for agricultural goods, Baimu launched the Baimu Yuanwei label, which highlights tea, chrysanthemum, honey, sweet potatoes and other local items. Young residents and local vendors promote the products through regular livestreaming, creating a direct link between growers and consumers.
Public services have also been strengthened. Medical teams travel to villages through a mobile service program to offer health checks, chronic disease management, and basic traditional treatments. Elderly residents with limited mobility can receive home visits.
Employment channels are expanding through township-level workshops that offer long-term farmwork, land contracting and seasonal jobs. Some residents have seen their annual income rise by about 30,000 yuan ($4,250). Training programs in childcare and home services help middle-aged women gain new skills, strengthening their employability.
Sports events and harvest festivals are drawing more community participation and improving local social cohesion as Baimu continues to enhance both industry and livelihoods.
Visitors enjoy tea in a mountain setting in Baimu township in Wuyi. [Photo/Jinhua News Media Center]
