(Visiting the Countryside·Looking at Revitalization) Jilin Lishu Abandoned Mine Pit Transformed into “Little Tianchi” to Attract Visitors

As the autumn breeze drifts through the area, the waters of “Little Tianchi” ripple enticingly, drawing travelers to Mengjialing Town in Siping City, Jilin Province, during the “National Day” holiday.

However, many visitors might be surprised to learn that in the 1970s, “Little Tianchi” was an open-pit mining site. For over four decades, the region’s rich mineral resources were heavily exploited, leaving much of the surrounding forest devastated. Thankfully, the local government intervened, launching a specialized program aimed at restoring the landscape by planting diverse trees to mend the ecological damage.

Interestingly, Siping County has preserved some remnants of the original mining operations. Cliff faces near the Majia Oil Workshop village still bear scars from those days. The striking colors of the limestone, combined with sunlight shimmering on the water below, create a vibrant tableau that has earned this area its nickname, “Little Tianchi.”

“The environment has truly improved over the years; the mountains are now lush and green,” shared You Hongwu, the village Party Secretary of Mengjialing. He emphasized how the area is now home to extensive orchards, and rural tourism has significantly boosted local agricultural sales.

Within the scenic area, locals have set up stalls offering their specialties, encouraging tourists to stop and shop. “This year during the ‘National Day’ holiday, we expect around 20,000 visitors. Villagers often say they can ‘eat off the plate of ecology’ now,” You explained. The county has also partnered with businesses to design and implement tourism projects, turning abandoned mining sites into new attractions.

New developments like Jiulong Pond, Cultural Parks, and Off-Road Bases are underway. In recent years, the area has seen an influx of visitors from across the country during holidays, transforming what was once a little-known rural spot into a popular tourism destination. The residents of Majia Oil Workshop and Mengjialing villages are now enjoying the fruits of this tourism boom.

With an abundance of mountains, water, fish, and forests, You remarked, “In the past, villagers relied on mineral sales for their livelihood; now we’re thriving through tourism.”