As the Dragon Boat Festival approaches, the steaming baskets of Jinnan Huamo are filling the air in the Chinese mainland's Shanxi province. In southern Shanxi – especially Yuncheng and Linfen – families and artisans gather around wicker steamers, crafting dough into tigers, dragons and other symbolic figures.
Made from locally grown high-quality wheat, these decorative buns are more than just a treat. Recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage, Jinnan Huamo carries centuries-old meanings: each animal or pattern serves as an offering to ancestors, a prayer for favorable weather, and a wish for peace and prosperity in the year ahead.
Traditionally, these edible artworks appear at festivals, weddings, funerals and seasonal rituals. Shapes vary widely, from leaping fish symbolizing abundance to majestic tigers for strength. The vibrant designs showcase Shanxi's artisan spirit and connect modern communities to their roots.
For travelers and food lovers, catching a local workshop in Yuncheng is a must-do. You can try shaping your own huamo under the guidance of skilled makers, then taste the soft, slightly sweet dough fresh from the steamer. It’s a hands-on way to immerse yourself in the region’s living traditions.
As the steam rises and the buns emerge, Jinnan Huamo reminds us that food can be art—and that honoring the past can bring people together in celebration of culture, community and blessings for the future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
