A tale of a woman and her village, C China

Ma Su'e looks from the window of her house, also a hotel, in Gaogongqiao village, where the population is mostly Dong ethnic people, in Enshi city, Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, central China's Hubei Province, August 15, 2009. Ma started her farmhouse-turned hotel business last year as the picturesque scenery in the mountainous area attracted more and more visitors. Her performance troupe consisting of 52 local villagers has also become a major attraction. Ma and other local residents have also set up a council to help manage, monitor and give advice to businesses scattered in local tourist spots to better serve tourists and prevent the eco-environment from being affected. [Xinhua]

Ma Su'e and her performance troupe of local farmers perform a traditional dance for visitors at Gaogongqiao village in Enshi city, Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, central China's Hubei Province, August 15, 2009. The village’s population is mostly Dong ethnic people and is located about 10 km away from Enshi city, the prefecture’s capital. [Xinhua]

Ma Su'e serves visitors tea at her house, which doubles as a hotel, in Gaogongqiao village, where the population is mostly Dong ethnic people, in Enshi city, central China's Hubei Province, August 15, 2009. [Xinhua]

Ma Su'e checks her performance outfit. [Xinhua]

Ma Su'e, her husband and son. [Xinhua]

Ma Su'e talks with members of the performance troupe. [Xinhua]