Hechi's vines weave global legacy

Du'an Yao autonomous county in Hechi has turned humble mountain vines into a thriving global industry, with its traditional weaving craft gaining traction in over 20 countries and regions.

What began as a way to put bread on the table decades ago has evolved into a pillar sector, driving local employment and cultural inheritance.

Disu town, nestled amidst karst terrain rich in bamboo and vine resources, launched its weaving industry in the early 1960s.

Villagers initially crafted daily necessities like baskets and hats from vines and straw, and the town was named "China's Hometown of Bamboo, Vine and Straw Woven Crafts" in September 2003. Artisans like Wei Danni have elevated the craft, mastering frame shaping and intricate weaving to create lifelike works such as vine ponies, relying on decades of persistent practice.

The industry has developed an integrated model linking enterprises, production bases and households. Its product line has expanded to include 300 series and 15,000 varieties, ranging from daily items to decorative artworks and sold to markets including the United States and the United Kingdom.

Disu town now boasts 26 enterprises with independent import and export rights, generating 200 million yuan ($28.72 million) in output value and supporting 34,000 jobs across 19 towns.

To adapt to modern markets, artisans like Wei Xilan promote products via live streams in Yao costumes. To overcome a shortage of young talent, eight training bases offer annual workshops for over 900 people.

Wei introduces vine-woven products through live streams. [Photo provided to guangxi.chinadaily.com.cn/hechi]

Craftspeople also upgrade products by integrating embroidery, blending tradition with high-end customization to keep the time-honored craft competitive globally.