Rural civility conference in Shandong explores path to a better countryside

Public cultural services in rural areas have also expanded. Opera performances, rural reading campaigns, and mass sporting events have gained wide followings. Village-branded events such as Village BA basketball games and Village Evening Galas have drawn particularly large audiences. The sixth National Village Run, held last year, attracted 20,000 amateur runners and generated a direct economic impact of more than 60 million yuan ($8.87 million).

"These events are created by farmers, performed by farmers, and enjoyed by farmers," the report said. "They have turned rural residents from spectators into leading actors, boosting their pioneering spirit, local identity, and cultural confidence."

Beyond culture, the report highlighted broader progress in rural development. Last year, China's total grain output remained above 700 billion kilograms for the second straight year. Rural per capita disposable income has grown by 1.9 times since 2012, with steady improvements in infrastructure, living environments, and public services across the countryside.