HANGZHOU -- Shishe Village, a 400-year-old settlement nestled in the hills of eastern China's Zhejiang Province, is gaining popularity among international tourists seeking a tranquil retreat steeped in local culture.

Located in Hangzhou, the village recently welcomed 20 visitors from more than ten countries, including Azerbaijan, Peru, South Korea, and Russia, as part of a cultural exchange tour highlighting rural revitalization and heritage preservation.
Foreign guests walked along the village's narrow cobblestone paths, flanked by green mountains and a mix of traditional homes and creatively restored cultural buildings.
Many were struck by the village's picturesque scenery.
"I think the scenery here is really beautiful. I've taken a lot of photos, and I will share them with my friends and family," said Al Shaibani, a tourist from Yemen.
Shishe's peaceful setting, featuring traditional tiled-roof homes, winding streams, and terraced hillsides, has made it a haven for travelers hoping to escape urban stress.
"Because it's better than to be in the city all the time so this one is more quiet, more peaceful, yeah, it's very nice," said Jorge Armando Castneda Narquen, a tourist from Peru.
Beyond the landscape, visitors participated in hands-on cultural activities, including making traditional Chinese pastries, as part of efforts to promote China's intangible cultural heritage.
"It is so easy, but the taste is so good," said Atila Ashouri, a tourist from Iran.
With its peaceful ambiance, cultural experiences, and scenic landscapes, Shishe Village offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, leaving visitors with lasting memories of China's beauty.