Piecing together a tribute to traditions

Tucked away in the storied lanes of the Enning Road historical district in Guangzhou lies a living tribute to tradition — a cluster of a dozen or so studios where the city's intangible cultural heritage is not just preserved, but celebrated.

Here, centuries-old crafts, such as Cantonese porcelain, embroidery, and Guangdong lion dancing, find new resonance. These studios are more than showcases of artistry; they are interactive spaces where visitors can handle brushes, thread needles, and even bring a fabric lion's head to life.

Each studio feels like a mini museum — a blend of creation, display, retail, and immersive experiences. Together, they illuminate the daily rhythms of heritage preservation while encouraging the bold new ideas needed to keep these traditions relevant.

Anchoring this hub is Yongqing Fang, a revitalized section of the district that has become a cultural cornerstone of Guangzhou. These heritage-focused studios infuse fresh energy into the old neighborhood, drawing curious residents and tourists alike. The growing foot traffic has, in turn, amplified the reach and relevance of Guangzhou's intangible cultural heritage.

"Yongqing Fang has become a cultural emblem of Guangzhou," says Zhai Huiling, a provincial inheritor of Cantonese porcelain, who opened her studio in Yongqing Fang in 2020. "The heritage street adds a bright and vibrant hue to its identity."