Various red sugar products are made in Hanzao village, Jinhua, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Tide News]

Hanzao village in Wucheng district, Jinhua, Zhejiang province, hosted a red sugar cultural festival on Dec 15, captivating both locals and tourists with a glimpse into traditional sugarcane craftsmanship.

It was the village's busiest and most anticipated time of the year. At the red sugar processing factory, villagers continuously added firewood to the furnace, showcasing the age-old art of red sugar production.

The demonstration of traditional red sugar-making techniques was a highlight. Visitors were immersed in the intricate process from sugarcane harvesting to the final molding stage.

The intangible cultural heritage exhibition area also proved to be a major draw, featuring an array of red sugar products like walnut red sugar and red sugar twists. Attendees savored these delicacies, indulging in the authentic flavors of red sugar.

Complementing the cultural showcase were performances at the rural theater, enriching the event with vibrant rural artistry and further engaging visitors in the essence of red sugar culture.

The village's unique natural conditions, characterized by sandy soil and a special mountain climate, have fostered an ideal environment for sugarcane cultivation. Due to traditional manual practices, red sugar from this region boasts a distinct flavor akin to caramel while also retaining the nutrition of sugarcane.

By intertwining traditional customs with contemporary initiatives, Hanzao village exemplifies a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, offering a promising model for rural rejuvenation.