In the very picturesque Shanjiayuan village in Shanghe county — located in Jinan, capital of East China's Shandong province — all is tranquil and idyllic.

It's a place where date orchards stretch forth into the distance and where a quaint red-brick building with a high dome houses a skilled barista who loves to pour frothy milk into a waiting cup, crafting a tantalizing latte.

The village cafe in Shanjiayuan offers visitors a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. [Photo/Jinan Daily]

After opening last year, the village cafe fast became a hotspot for tourists, particularly during holidays, who were drawn to its rustic charm and aromatic brews. Housed in a renovated old building that's preserved its original structure, the cafe blends seamlessly with the surrounding countryside.

Outside the cafe, visitors are treated to a special rural experience: Swings hang from date trees and there's an elevated walkway, a fishing pavilion by a pond and a shallow pool for kids to play in.

The once abandoned land has been transformed into a communal farm, enhancing the cafe's appeal.

Thanks to a partnership with the China New Rural Planning and Design Institute, Shanjiayuan village has become a hub for study tours, attracting study groups monthly.

The cafe's presence has infused a touch of sophistication into the rural setting, offering a fresh and engaging experience for visitors.

The success of the village cafe has not only revitalized Shanjiayuan, but has also boosted the village's collective income by 300,000 yuan ($42,000) annually.

Far from being a mere leisure spot, the cafe is serving as a catalyst for rural rejuvenation — connecting natural landscapes, traditional culture and modern living. Locals say it's sparking endless possibilities for rural development, embodying the very essence of a thriving countryside.

The beautiful homestays in the village are now fully booked every weekend and on holidays. [Photo/Jinan Daily]