Abandoned Village Reborn as Eco-Retreat Destination in Zhejiang, China

In the summer of 2025, a rural retreat in Xiuzhou district, Jiaxing, Zhejiang province has become a popular escape for urban travelers from the Yangtze River Delta region. The Kaisen (Happy) Tribe, which opened in October 2024, has transformed an abandoned village into an ecologically rich environment that blends natural landscapes with children's play facilities, parent-child camping, agricultural exploration, and environmental education.

The site's location along the Grand Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been a key factor in its appeal. As freight routes have shifted and industries have modernized in recent decades, the town's canal-side resources had fallen into disuse. However, local efforts are now revitalizing these idling assets, creating popular attractions like a reptile museum, unique accommodations, and interactive activities.

The project's "heritage-first" development model aims to make the area feel alive, not just an open-air museum. Complementing the historical Changhong Bridge are the region's abundant water resources, which have shaped local traditions like lotus cultivation and ancient fishermen's celebrations. Repurposed granaries and a reconstructed steam locomotive also offer visitors a glimpse into the town's past.