In Caizhuang village in the Taizhou Port Economic Development Zone, filial piety and righteousness have been cherished for generations and every household takes pride in its strong moral traditions.
The Xiaoyi (filial piety) Pavilion in Caizhuang village, Taizhou Port EDZ. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_1ff53eb21f0a]
The village's history of filial piety dates back to Cai Xiang, a noble official of the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127). His fifth-generation descendant, Cai Mengxiang, was known for his deep devotion to his mother. The Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911) honored the family for their filial and righteous acts.
"Today, filial piety and righteousness mean respect for the elderly, loyalty to others, and love for one's hometown," said village head Cai Chun.
In the past, villagers waited for buses by the roadside, which was dangerous. In response, elderly party member Li Chunming built a bus shelter using his own money. He also sponsored an orphan to attend college and helped him find a job. Such stories are common in Caizhuang.
The ancient culture of filial piety is now turning into tangible development momentum. The village has built cultural parks, museums, and education bases themed on filial piety, party-related history, and agriculture. In just six months, these sites attracted over 20 organizations and earned the village nearly 50,000 yuan (about $7,318) in income.
The village has been developing ecological tourism as well. It has introduced a honey pear cooperative, a crab farming cooperative, and multiple tourism companies, providing jobs for 400 villagers. In 2025, the village's collective income reached 3.26 million yuan, while per capita income hit 42,500 yuan.