China has experienced a surge in new consumption this year, with a booming consumer interest in handmade products that incorporate the elements of intangible cultural heritage.
According to statistics from a social media platform, the number of merchants has seen a year-on-year increase of over 200 percent, while the number of customers has grown by more than 300 percent. Popular items include traditional Chinese fans, bamboo crafts, and paper cutting.
In Chengdu City of southwest China's Sichuan Province, an intangible cultural heritage fair at the Chengdu Wuhou Shrine drew large crowds. Handmade products like paper cutting and sugar painting captivated visitors, especially children, who were eager to participate in the creation process.
"With only three colors, the umbrella becomes beautiful. It's wonderful," said visitor Yang Shiyi.
"I hope to learn this skill and share it with the world when I grow up. May everyone come to love Chinese traditional culture," said tourist Xu Zichen.
As inheritors of intangible cultural heritage introduce new ideas, young people are gaining a better understanding of these traditions and are willing to invest in them.
In Zhengzhou city of central China’s Henan Province, local citizens are learning traditional incense-making techniques in customized classes organized by cultural inheritors. Participants learn techniques, ratios, and identification skills.
"I feel that this training is not just about making incense but also about learning history and culture," said Lin Xing, a local resident.
Currently, statistics show that over 6,700 intangible heritage-related workshops have been established across China. New techniques and designs that incorporate elements of intangible culture are giving rise to a series of elegant and practical products, creating opportunities for cultural inheritors to connect with the market.
Jiang Xuechun, an inheritor of Xinjin paper art, has been exploring innovative applications for handmade products. Over the years, she has designed various paper art techniques, including scrolling, folding, erecting, and outlining, transforming traditional decorative displays into wearable accessories and portable pendants.
"The petals of this lotus are made from paper slices just a millimeter thick. I hope to showcase different types of paper and to pass on these beautiful creations," said Jiang.
Thanks to these innovations, Jiang has received more orders for her works. She has also organized classes to teach local villagers, providing them with additional opportunities to increase their incomes.
China's intangible cultural heritage thrives with renewed vitality
