Tai'an's ICH weaves past into present

In Tai'an, a city steeped in history, intangible cultural heritage (ICH) serves as a bridge between past and present. A tour for online influencers visited key sites in Dongping county and Feicheng, observing how traditional crafts are being revitalized through innovation.

The journey began at the newly opened Grand Canal ICH transmission center in Dongping. This center integrates over 150 national, provincial, and city-level heritage items, using immersive 3D technology and interactive exhibits to display the blend of Grand Canal culture and ICH. It acts as a hub for exhibition, skill transmission, and cultural creativity.

The tour then visited Jiupingong Pancake, where a traditional staple is being redefined. This Shandong provincial-level heritage item undergoes a meticulous 72-hour process with 16 steps. Through innovative low-temperature fermentation and a unique technique, ordinary grains become a paper-thin, soft, and instantly melting delicacy, showcasing a perfect mix of preservation and innovation.

Feicheng is famous both in China and internationally as the "hometown of Buddha Peaches". Its 100,000-mu (6,666.67 hectares) peach orchards offer abundant peach wood resources. In China, peach wood is a symbol of peace, good fortune, and longevity.

With a history of over 1,700 years, peach wood carving was recognized as a provincial ICH in 2006. The sixth-generation inheritor, Wang Laixin, has been crucial in its development. He created a method to prevent cracking and introduced techniques like wire-inlaid enamel, producing colorful, exquisite artworks. Today, the brand features over 4,000 varieties of handicrafts.

From immersive digital experiences to refined food production and artistic carving, Tai'an's ICH is being preserved with enthusiasm while adapting for the future, ensuring these ancient skills remain relevant for generations to come.

Recognized in 2006 as a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage in Shandong, Feicheng peach wood carving skill has a history of over 1,700 years. [Photo/Sdnews]