Research on the Development Patterns of Rural Tourism in Xiangxi Autonomous Prefecture, China

 Tourism, one of the pillar industries in Xiangxi Autonomous Prefecture, plays a significant role in the region's economic development and cultural exchange. Amongst all types of tourism, rural tourism is especially important for the further economic prosperity of the region after it having been lifted out of poverty and for narrowing the regional income gap. In the course of the gradual development of rural tourism, related problems are revealed. A qualitative analysis is used to analyse the development patterns of rural tourism in the Xiangxi Autonomous Prefecture; suggestions and countermeasures are put forward for new patterns of further development.