Hangzhou just got a vibrant infusion of tradition. The “Xiling Beauty: Intangible Cultural Heritage Bazaar” - a lively showcase spotlighting heritage crafts from Gongshu (Hangzhou), Wuyi, and Changshan kicked off this week at Wulin Art Museum. It drew crowds eager to experience living traditions up close.

The event burst open with an energetic flash mob of folk performances straight from Wuyi: lion dances, puppet theater, children performing Wu opera, and the thunderous rhythms of Wuyi Eighteen Beats. More than 60 master artisans and heritage bearers from the three regions gathered under one roof, turning the gallery into a dynamic hub of hands-on discovery. You will admire exquisite national treasures like Wangxingji fans and celadon ceramics from the ancient Wuzhou kilns. There are also playful nods to pop culture: spot the leather-carved hair comb featured in the hit drama Lin Jiang Xian, or check out intricate gold-and-silver metalwork inspired by the blockbuster game Black Myth: Wukong.

This collaboration isn’t just about display. This is part of a deeper cultural partnership. In recent years, Gongshu (Hangzhou) and Changshan (Quzhou) have forged a cultural alliance, leveraging their complementary strengths to exchange artists, share resources, and bring rural heritage into urban life. At this event, Changshan presents 10 signature intangible heritage items - from eggshell carving and palm-leaf weaving to local delicacies like Changshan Tribute Noodles and pomelo products. It helps turn time-honored skills into real livelihoods for village artisans.

The exhibition runs through December 12 and is free to the public as a perfect chance to see how centuries-old craftsmanship is finding relevance in today’s China.