A raftsman named Huang Shengteng steers a raft in Shangqing Stream Scenic Area. [Photo by Zhou Jin/chinadaily.com.cn]

Each trip down the stream requires raftsman Huang Shengteng to push the bamboo pole over ten thousand times. As the 55-year-old skillfully steers the raft with his pole, Huang often chats with tourists, introducing the scenery, sharing anecdotes and sometimes discussing the latest news.

Occasionally, he even throws in a few English phrases when interacting with foreign visitors. "Sometimes we host international friends, and speaking a bit of English helps cheer up the mood," Huang said.

Huang is one of over 200 full-time rafters working at the Shangqing Stream Scenic Area. Since the summer tourist season began, the number of visitors has surged, with peak days requiring up to three or four trips for him.