Earlier this week, on Thursday, November 20, Beichuan Qiang Autonomous County in Sichuan province came alive as the Qiang community marked their traditional New Year. What once was a local ritual has now become a must-see for domestic and international travelers.
Visitors were invited to explore 108 kinds of intangible cultural heritage, an immersive showcase of Qiang traditions that blends hands-on workshops, live performances and culinary delights.
- Traditional woodworking and paper-cutting sessions
- Qiang embroidery workshops led by local artisans
- Interactive folk song and dance performances
- Sampling glutinous rice cakes and medicinal herb tea
Travelers shared their experiences on social media, with photos and videos underlining the region's vibrant costumes, rhythmic drum circles and mountain scenery. Local tourism agencies reported that accommodation bookings for the New Year period nearly sold out, driving a notable tourism boost for Sichuan's rural heartland.
Organizers balanced the influx of visitors with sustainability measures, including guided tour caps and waste-reduction initiatives. 'Our goal is to celebrate and preserve Qiang heritage while offering authentic experiences,' said a county tourism official.
The success of these festivities underscores a growing global trend: young travelers are seeking deeper, culture-driven adventures. By spotlighting intangible heritage, Sichuan is positioning itself as a leading destination for immersive and sustainable tourism.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
