In a blend of tradition and modernity, the 2025 World Peony Conference and the 34th Heze International Peony Culture and Tourism Festival kicked off on April 8 in Heze City, east of the Chinese mainland's Shandong Province, widely celebrated as the "peony capital." This international event underscores how the peony, a time-honored symbol of national prosperity and happiness, bridges cultural divides and ignites global admiration.
Renowned for its rich artistic heritage, the peony has long inspired traditional Chinese poetry, classical paintings, and elegant hanfu designs. Intertwined with hanfu imagery, poets historically compared the grace of women in traditional attire to the vibrant bloom of peonies. Artists from various countries have shared insights on how peony culture transcends borders, offering a narrative that resonates with a diverse, global audience.
Adding a modern twist to this story, South Korean vlogger Kim Jeong-won ventured into the breathtaking Caozhou peony garden during its peak bloom. In a captivating video, she explored the vibrant garden, admired hanfu designs inspired by the delicate peony, and donned classical court lady attire that reimagined iconic scenes from renowned Chinese paintings. Her creative endeavor exemplifies how traditional motifs can be revitalized through personal storytelling and digital innovation.
This celebration of botanical beauty and cultural heritage highlights the dynamic interplay between age-old traditions and modern expressions. As global audiences continue to explore these intersections, events like these reinforce the importance of cultural exchange and the enduring allure of symbols that unite us across continents.
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Peonies across cultures: Garden hanfu shoot for South Korean vlogger
cgtn.com
