As the sun set over Zhaoxing Dong village in Guizhou, a soulful soprano voice filled the air, awakening the vibrant spirit of the community. Under a majestic drum tower, local singing groups celebrated their heritage in a dazzling folk chorus, now featured on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Lu Yanyu, an inheritor of this tradition, expressed, “What was initially just a local performance turned into a grand collection of over 130 singing groups, bringing joy to us all. By day, we farm; by night, we perform.”
Guizhou, rich in ethnic diversity, has blossomed into a hub for cultural tourism. Destinations like Xijiang Qianhu Miao village attract visitors eager to explore Miao silver jewellery and Shui ethnic embroidery, celebrated not just locally but on global markets too. The province’s crafts, including Miao embroidery and batik, have become coveted souvenirs, connecting tourists to its remarkable heritage.
To solidify its cultural foundation, Guizhou is rolling out a strategic plan that encompasses high-quality research, heritage preservation, and exhibitions. The plan identifies 128 primary measures aimed at transforming the province into a culturally strong entity.
Nestled among lush mountains, Hailongtun, Guizhou’s only UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, embodies the region’s rich history. Ji Tao, director of Hailongtun’s heritage management team, shared insights about ongoing restoration: “Reflective markers monitor wall integrity; if a stone falls, we restore it to ensure authenticity. Even regrowing moss is carefully managed.”
Boasting one UNESCO site and three entries on the Intangible Cultural Heritage list, Guizhou is home to an expansive cultural tapestry. The province has established various initiatives for protection and continuity, engaging 121 experts and publishing academic literature to support heritage preservation.
The intersection of culture and industry has spurred Guizhou’s tourism growth. The province skillfully weaves together historical relics, traditional villages, and ethnic settlements into landmark tourism ventures. Visitor numbers surged by 11% year on year in 2024, reflecting the flourishing tourism sector.
Innovative business models have also emerged from Guizhou’s cultural tourism boom. In Rongjiang county, ethnic culture has been fused with sports through popular events like the Village Super League, while Guiyang welcomes vibrant street-side concerts. Traditional festivals showcase unique local charm, enhancing community bonding and cultural pride.
Guizhou continues to enrich tourism by integrating it with agriculture, wellness, and sports industries, aiming to elevate product quality and expand opportunities. Simultaneously, the province is advancing cultural welfare programmes, enhancing public services, and fostering community activities, ensuring the residents feel the positive impacts of this cultural renaissance.
Guizhou is experiencing a cultural tourism boom, showcasing its rich heritage through events and crafts. The province has a strategic plan for preservation and development, supporting various cultural initiatives. As it blends culture with tourism, Guizhou sees increasing visitor numbers and innovative business models, all enhancing the lives of both tourists and locals.
Guizhou’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage while embracing innovative tourism strategies has initiated a remarkable cultural boom. By strategically merging its diverse cultural assets with tourism industries, Guizhou not only attracts visitors but also enriches the lives of its residents. This vibrant synergy promises a bright future where heritage and modernity coexist harmoniously, creating a unique environmental tapestry that invites exploration and celebration.
Original Source: www.manilatimes.net
