Core Insights - The rapid growth of rural museums, referred to as "village museums," has become a popular choice in the cultural tourism sector, showcasing local heritage and traditions [1] Group 1: Development of Rural Museums - Zhejiang Province has completed the construction of 1,000 rural museums, achieving full coverage at the city and county levels, which has stimulated industrial development and preserved local nostalgia [1] - The Cicheng Rice Cake Museum in Ningbo highlights a 2,000-year history of rice cake production, allowing visitors to observe the entire production process [1][3] Group 2: Cultural Significance and Economic Impact - The Cicheng rice cake was historically a strategic food source, linked to the local examination culture, where candidates would carry rice cakes to the capital for exams [3] - Various types of rice cakes, such as pumpkin and purple sweet potato rice cakes, are now exported to Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia [4] Group 3: Local Artifacts and Tourism - The Jiangnan Waterway Boat Museum in Jiaxing features ancient boat models, showcasing the rich maritime culture of the region [6] - Jiaxing is enhancing the protection and exploration of historical relics along the canal, creating themed tourism routes to revive the prosperity of ancient towns [8] Group 4: Employment and Consumer Engagement - In Shandong, rural museums are driving employment and cultural tourism consumption, with the Jinan Gourd Museum displaying various gourd crafts that attract visitors [8][12] - The Oyster Museum in Weihai highlights the region's unique oyster culture and engages visitors in hands-on experiences related to oyster harvesting [12][14] Group 5: Preservation of Cultural Heritage - In Jilin, 150 rural museums have brought culture closer to farmers, serving as tangible records of history [14] - The Manchu Folk Museum in Jilin City showcases fishing and hunting techniques dating back to the Neolithic era, preserving the cultural heritage of the region [16] - The Guandong Agricultural Museum in Jilin County features over 25,000 items, documenting the agricultural history of the region and its farming wisdom [19]