Earlier this month, a delegation of European travel agents traveled to Yuhu Village in Yunnan Province on the Chinese mainland to experience the living tradition of Naxi handmade paper, also known as Dongba paper.
In a rustic workshop framed by bamboo groves, the agents learned how local artisans transform the fibrous bark of indigenous plants into delicate sheets of paper. Together, they soaked, beaten, and lifted the pulp by hand – an unhurried ritual passed down through generations.
Naxi handmade paper holds the distinction of being the oldest of its kind in the world. Its origins trace back to a time when the Dongba culture – steeped in ritual and storytelling – used these durable sheets to record language, ceremonies, and art. Today, this centuries-old craft remains a vital bridge between past and present.
For the European agents, the hands-on workshop offered more than a demonstration: it was a journey through time. "Working the pulp by hand brought history to life," one participant reflected, noting how the tactile process deepened their appreciation for cultural heritage.
This exchange underscores a growing trend in global travel: immersive, sustainable experiences that connect visitors with living traditions. As travelers seek authentic stories and purposeful journeys, art forms like Dongba paper offer unique insights into the cultures that nurture them.
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International friends discover world's oldest handmade paper
cgtn.com
