Bama Yao autonomous county has been honored as one of the seven model tourism counties in Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, according to a list released by Guangxi Commission of Tourism Development on Jan 5.

A panoramic view of Cihu Lake in Bama. [Photo/Hechi Daily]

Officials said that being honored as a model tourism county is expected to attract more visitors and help boost Bama's economy.

The county, located in northwest Guangxi, boasts craggy mountains, deep gullies, and winding rivers. Bama locals live longer than their counterparts in the cities thanks to the clean environment.

The Minghe River winds its way across the green landscape. [Photo/Hechi Daily]

Eleven ethnic groups inhabit Bama, including the Yao, Zhuang, Mulao and Maonan, endowing the county with diverse and rich ethnic cultural heritages.

Traditions such as Zhuzhu Festival attract a range of cultural activities such as cross-bow shooting, singing, dancing, and spinning tops.

Renshou Maison is a popular attraction in Bama, promoting the local longevity culture. [Photo/Hechi Daily]

Bagen Yao village in Bama is a place once visited by former premier Wen Jiabao in 2010, where he praised it for its picturesque landscape and rich cultural heritage. [Photo/Hechi Daily]