During this year's Spring Festival, Fuzhou showcased its intangible cultural heritage (ICH) through a dynamic lineup of events blending tradition with contemporary creativity. From the flowing sleeves of the Minju Opera, to the twirling oil-paper umbrellas and handwoven Chinese knots, the city's vibrant "Fu" culture was brought to life in engaging and interactive ways.

Performers bring festive cheer to visitors during the interactive Chinese New Year parade at Shangxiahang Cultural Scenic Area. [Photo/fznews.com.cn]

Among the highlights was a festive program held at the Kuliang Tourist Resort, where heritage, nature and hands-on activities came together in a lively mountainous setting. From Feb 19 to 21, the resort hosted a Spring Festival-themed event that invited visitors to experience traditional crafts up close while enjoying the scenic charm of Kuliang.

At the entrance to Cryptomeria King Park, alongside the event's main visual installation, an interactive painting zone attracted a steady flow of crowds. Under the guidance of skilled artisans, visitors painted auspicious zodiac motifs for the Year of the Horse, expressing hopes and blessings for the year ahead through hands-on artistic creation.

The ICH market at Kuliang also emerged as a lively gathering space for both Chinese and international visitors. Traditional crafts including paper-cutting, lacquer fan making and sugar painting were presented in an open, engaging setting designed to encourage public participation.

In the paper-cutting area, artisans incorporated themes such as the Horse zodiac and Kuliang's scenic landscapes, guiding visitors in creating intricate designs imbued with symbolic meaning. At the lacquer fan workshop, participants explored the distinctive "painting on water" technique to craft elegant lacquered round fans, gaining insight into the refined artistry and ingenuity of Fuzhou's lacquer traditions.

The folk sugar painting booth proved especially popular. With practiced precision, artisans shaped molten sugar into vivid auspicious motifs — soaring dragons, galloping horses and the character "Fu". Visitors observed the delicate craftsmanship up close and were invited to try the techniques themselves, turning heritage appreciation into an interactive cultural experience.

Beyond the festive activities, Kuliang offered a tranquil mountain retreat during the holiday. Visitors admired blooming mountain cherry blossoms and golden rapeseed fields, camped and enjoyed tea amidst the fresh mountain air, and participated in heritage workshops that showcased the relaxed charm of Fuzhou-style living.