Chinese mapping authorities worked out about 70,000 topographic charts and image graphics for rural areas in 2009.

The State Bureau of Surveying and Mapping said the mapping project was part of its efforts to ensure each village has a map of its own that can also help guide visitors to those villages.

According to the bureau, Beijing is leading the country in employing geographical information systems and management information systems to develop villages.

The bureau also made more than 300 thematic maps and developed 18 geographical information systems tailored for agriculture and rural areas.