Dongxi Valley is a must-see, in Niumulin. [Source: China Daily/Lin Huanqiang]

"The monkeys here are much more polite and civilized than those I have encountered in Emei Mountain in Sichuan province," our guide said.

Niumulin is one of the few relatively undisturbed tourist destinations of China.

As a national scenic spot, Yongchun county forest has had a logging ban since 1958, and is one of Fujian's best virgin forests, on a par with the better-known Xishuangbanna of Yunnan province.

Locals believe the name Yongchun, which means "everlasting spring", has blessed them with prosperity and longevity. But they also know the place would not be what it is today had local officials not chosen a development road less traveled.

"Unlike some of our neighboring counties that have pursued industrial development, we have focused on protecting our natural resources and cultural legacy," says local official Xu Chunhui.

Eco-tourism is expected to become a pillar industry of the county, employing half-a-million people, according to Xu.

"Being a tour guide may not make as much as working in mining or manufacturing, but at least we do not have to worry about accidents and poisoning, with the added advantage of getting a good mountain-climbing workout every day," our guide said.

Yongchun is also the cradle of Wing Chun kungfu.