Various gourd art products captivate visitors in Lanzhou, Gansu province. [Photo/The official news website of Lanzhou]

In Lanzhou, Gansu province, intangible cultural heritage is woven into everyday life, enriching the experiences of both residents and visitors. From a steaming bowl of beef noodles to the resounding beats of the Taiping Drum and intricately carved gourds, these cultural treasures are being revitalized through innovative platforms and active community engagement.

At the Jinchengguan Gourd Carving Workshop, a diverse array of gourd art captivates visitors with vivid depictions of landscapes, urban life, and classic motifs. Gourd carving inheritor Ruan Lin emphasized preserving traditional techniques through a master-apprentice model while incorporating contemporary elements like Yellow River culture and local culinary themes to breathe new life into this ancient craft.

The Taiping Drum, with a history of over 600 years, is recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage. Lanzhou has established a comprehensive Taiping Drum Base, featuring training facilities, exhibition halls, and experience spaces. The base offers immersive courses to students and community groups, receiving 10,000 visits in a year.

Lanzhou's commitment to cultural preservation is further reflected in a robust framework of policies and initiatives, including the establishment of heritage workshops and the publication of extensive research.

With five national, 52 provincial, and numerous local intangible cultural heritage projects, Lanzhou has become a beacon of cultural preservation, showcasing its rich heritage through dedicated institutions and strategic initiatives.