Under the vibrant and diverse umbrella of Hangzhou--comprising ten urban districts, two counties (Tonglu and Chun'an), and one county-level city under its administration (Jiande)--each area boasts its own unique culture, dialect, cuisine, and customs. Chun'an County, a gem in this rich tapestry, is renowned for the breathtaking Qiandao Lake (Thousand Island Lake), a scenic reservoir with over a thousand islands. As part of the 18th Hangzhou Cultural and Creative Industry Expo, Chun'an recently held the 2024 Qiandao Lake Creative Life Week, celebrating its rich traditions and its growing role as a cultural hub.

A celebration of Xin'an Culture

Against the stunning backdrop of the Qiandao Lake, the Creative Life Week opened with performances celebrating the heritage of Xin'an Culture. Originating from the Xin'an River basin, which spans parts of Anhui and Zhejiang provinces, Xin'an Culture is known for its distinctive art, traditional medicine, cuisine, folk crafts, architecture, and local dialects.

At its heart lies Xin'an Neo-Confucianism, a philosophical school significantly developed by Zhu Xi (1130–1200), one of the most influential Confucian scholars. Zhu Xi's teachings on moral integrity and the rational order of the universe have profoundly shaped Chinese philosophy, continuing to define Xin'an Culture. His influence can be seen in architecture, paintings, and sculptures crafted from wood, brick, and stone.

During the opening ceremony, the new Xin'an Culture Book Series was launched--a collection developed over seven years, covering 18 cultural categories across 19 volumes. The Chun'an government gifted the first copies to prominent libraries and museums, emphasizing its commitment to preserving this heritage for future generations.

A showcase of Chun'an's Intangible Cultural Heritage

In an open-air square by the scenic Qiandao Lake, six cultural pavilions and a large central stage created an inviting showcase of Zhejiang's finest products. At its heart stood the Chun'an Pavilion, highlighting the area's unique local heritage. Here, visitors explored local products like gin, tea, and even caviar. Local farmers from Zitong, known as the "Home of Calligraphy and Painting", brought artworks crafted entirely by farmers rather than professional painters, reflecting a community-wide love for art.

Nearby booths displayed Chun'an's intricate wood carvings, linen embroidery, and other traditional arts representing generations-old traditions. An elderly woman demonstrated her embroidery, sharing both her art and the rich history behind each piece.

A taste of local delicacies

The event offered visitors an authentic taste of Xin'an and Chun'an cuisine, featuring traditional snacks like hairy tofu, sweet corn cakes, and rice skin. Each vendor shared stories behind their specialties; one vendor explained that her family has passed down the art of making hairy tofu for six generations, offering guests a taste of Chun'an's culinary heritage.

More than a scenic destination

Beyond its culinary heritage, Chun'an offers more than local flavors. Its most iconic feature, the Qiandao Lake--also known as the Xin'an River Reservoir--boasts 1,078 islands and is celebrated as a 5A tourist attraction with activities like boating, fishing, and camping. In addition to its natural beauty, Chun'an has hosted prominent sports events, including the Asian Games cycling and triathlon competitions. In 2024, Chun'an hosted over 50 sports events, reinforcing its reputation as a "City of Sports".

Global reach of Chun'an goods

Chun’an is also known for producing high-quality caviar, often referred to as "black gold" in Europe. With the Qiandao Lake’s pristine waters, Chun'an has become China's largest caviar production base, exporting globally. Future plans include whiskey production, with the Aucus Dundee Chun'an Whiskey Distillery combining whiskey-making with tourism. Chun'an also recently hosted the China International Whiskey Development Conference, opening doors for global collaboration.

Chun'an as a hub of tradition and innovation

"I was impressed by the variety of new foods Chun'an offers. Behind each specialty, I discovered long-standing traditions--like the woman making hairy tofu with her mother, following a family tradition now six generations old," shared Daria, a reporter for Hangzhoufeel, who attended the event.

The Qiandao Lake Creative Life Week showcased Chun'an as more than a scenic destination; it revealed a cultural hub rich in tradition and innovation. Through art, cuisine, sports, and unique products, Chun'an invites everyone to experience its vibrant heritage.