A renovated farmhouse in Putuo district, Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province. [Photo/Zhejiang Daily] 

Putuo district in Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province, has over the past few years been exploring ways to utilize idle farmhouses in an effort to aid its rural vitalization drive.

For example, Zhao Lijun, who is in charge of the renovation work of farmhouses on the district's Chaishan Island, said that he has leased 230 old houses and is planning to reinforce and renovate them to preserve their original style and charm as much as possible.

Zhao added that these farmhouses will be transformed into holiday reception rooms, designer studios, and guesthouses, which will play a significant role in bolstering the island’s tourism industry.

Authorities will take into consideration rural land use, industrial development, and cultural heritage when converting these idle farmhouses into cultural and creative towns, boutique homestays, and leisure areas.

Authorities have also been making efforts to expedite construction of supporting facilities and infrastructure to preserve the district's traditional ancient villages and buildings.

The district has completed renovations of 1,052 idle farmhouses since 2019, which has significantly bolstered its fishing villages' industries, incomes, and collective economy.

Authorities will focus on attracting more high-quality projects to promote the full use of these renovated farmhouses, which will inject new vitality into rural areas, said a local official.