ChinaCulture

Cultural Exploration around Hefei

1. What are the most popular traditional festivals celebrated in Hefei, China?

Some of the most popular traditional festivals celebrated in Hefei, China include:

1. Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) – This is the most important and widely celebrated festival in all of China, including Hefei. It usually falls between late January and mid-February and is characterized by family reunions, festive decorations, dragon and lion dances, firecrackers, and traditional meals.

2. Qingming Festival (Tomb Sweeping Day) – Celebrated in early April, this festival is a time for families to pay respects to their ancestors by visiting and cleaning their graves, making offerings of food and burning incense.

3. Dragon Boat Festival – Also known as Duanwu Festival, this festival takes place on the 5th day of the 5th month of the Chinese lunar calendar (usually in June). It commemorates the death of poet Qu Yuan through boat races, eating zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), and hanging colorful carp-shaped windsocks.

4. Mid-Autumn Festival – This festival falls on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month (usually in September or October) and is also known as the Mooncake Festival. Families gather together to enjoy mooncakes (a traditional pastry filled with sweet bean paste or lotus seed paste), light lanterns, and appreciate the full moon.

5. Double Ninth Festival – Celebrated on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month (usually in October), this festival honors seniors and is also known as Senior’s Day. Traditional activities include climbing mountains for good luck and drinking chrysanthemum wine.

6. Lantern Festival – This festival marks the end of Chinese New Year celebrations on the 15th day of the first lunar month (usually in February or March). People light lanterns to symbolize letting go of past troubles and welcoming a new beginning.

7. Ancestral Worship Festival – Also known as Zu-festival, this festival is celebrated on the 14th day of the 4th lunar month (usually in May) to honor ancestors and pray for good fortune.

2. Are there any unique festivals celebrated in Hefei?

There are several unique festivals celebrated in Hefei that may not be as widely known outside of the city. Some of these include:

1. Baogong Ancestral Temple Fair – Held at the traditional Baogong Temple, this fair is dedicated to honoring Bao Zheng, a famous Chinese judge from the Song Dynasty who was known for his impartiality and just rulings.

2. Yunji Festival – This festival celebrates Yunji cuffs, a traditional handicraft from Hefei made with silk and jade that symbolizes blessings and luck.

3. Pujiang Horse Racing Festival – This festival takes place in Pujiang County, located near Hefei, and features various horse racing competitions and performances showcasing local customs and traditions.

4. Plum Blossom Festival – Celebrated at Mount Xia during late winter/early spring, this festival highlights the blooming of plum blossoms with cultural exhibitions, performances, and food stalls.

5. Yuliang Drumming Festival – This festival takes place in Luotuo Township near Hefei and showcases traditional drumming performances on huge drums made from tree trunks.

6. Li Hongzhang’s Birthday Celebration – Li Hongzhang was a prominent historical figure from Anhui Province (where Hefei is located) during the Qing Dynasty. His birthday is commemorated with memorial ceremonies at his former residence in Hefei.

2. How does the local cuisine in Hefei differ from other regions in China?


The local cuisine in Hefei is known for its subtle, light flavors and the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. It is also heavily influenced by the flavors of neighboring Anhui province. Compared to other regions in China, the cuisine in Hefei tends to be less spicy and uses fewer seasonings.

One major difference is the focus on freshwater fish and seafood in Hefei cuisine due to its location near the Yangtze River and Chaohu Lake. The use of wild mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and river snails is also common in dishes from this region.

Additionally, Hefei cuisine often incorporates locally grown soybeans and their products such as tofu into many dishes. Other popular ingredients include lotus root, duck eggs, and glutinous rice.

Compared to eastern regions like Sichuan or Hunan, Hefei cuisine is generally milder with less emphasis on spicy flavors. However, it still maintains a balance of vibrant colors and various textures in its dishes.

Overall, Hefei cuisine has a unique blend of subtlety and freshness that sets it apart from other regions in China.

3. What are some must-visit cultural landmarks or historical sites in and around Hefei?


1. Former Residence of Li Hongzhang: This was the home of the famous Qing dynasty statesman Li Hongzhang, who played a significant role in modernizing China.

2. Xiaoyaojin Park: Once the site of a naval battle during the Qing dynasty, this park now holds historic buildings, gardens, and ponds.

3. Hui Garden: A traditional Chinese garden built during the Ming dynasty, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.

4. Hefei Museum: This museum showcases artifacts and relics from different periods of Hefei’s history, including prehistoric times, ancient civilizations, and modern developments.

5. Zhongmiao Temple: First built in the Tang dynasty, this temple is dedicated to the Buddhist god Guanyin and features impressive architecture and well-preserved ancient artifacts.

6. Anhui Provincial Museum: Located just outside of Hefei city center, this museum houses a large collection of cultural relics and archaeological findings from Anhui province.

7. Chaohu Lake Scenic Area: This scenic area surrounds Chaohu Lake and includes several historical sites such as Wuhuang Palace (a Taoist temple) and Yinshan Pagoda (a Buddhist pagoda).

8. Temple of Lord Bao: This temple is dedicated to Bao Zheng, a renowned government official from the Song dynasty known for his wisdom and justice.

9. Shushan Village Historic District: A traditional Chinese village with well-preserved architecture dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties.

10. Peace Plaza Cultural Block: A modern cultural complex featuring traditional elements such as a Confucian temple alongside contemporary art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

4. Can you tell me about any unique customs or traditions that are specific to Hefei culture?


Some unique customs and traditions in Hefei culture include:

1. Anhui cuisine: Hefei is the capital of Anhui province, known for its distinctive cuisine which includes dishes such as braised fish with scallions and crispy rice balls.

2. Luoyang Street Fair: This traditional street fair takes place every year during the winter solstice, featuring performances, food stalls, and folk art displays.

3. Dragon Boat Festival: The Dragon Boat Festival is a popular holiday in Hefei, with dragon boat races being held on the city’s rivers and lakes to commemorate ancient poet Qu Yuan.

4. Puji Temple Fair: Held on the 19th day of the first lunar month, this fair celebrates Puji Temple, a famous landmark in Hefei, with traditional performances and activities.

5. Taoist Mount Sanbao Pilgrimage: Every spring, thousands of people participate in a two-day trek to Mount Sanbao to pray for health and good fortune.

6. Offering incense to ancestors: Many families in Hefei still practice ancestor worship by offering incense at ancestral shrines or gravesites during important occasions or festivals.

7. Lantern Floating Festival: On Mid-Autumn Festival, people in Hefei release illuminated lanterns onto the river as an offering to ancestors and for good luck in the coming year.

8. Water calligraphy: A popular activity among elderly residents, water calligraphy involves using large brushes dipped in water to write Chinese characters on paved surfaces such as sidewalks or roads before they evaporate.

9. Shadow puppetry: Dating back over 2,000 years, shadow puppetry is a traditional form of storytelling that remains popular in Hefei’s rural areas.

10. Tin Trunk Festival: This festival originated from students carrying tin trunks with all their belongings during wartime; now it is celebrated by young people carrying tin trunks to show their love for the city and desire for a better future.

5. How do people traditionally greet each other in Hefei?

In Hefei, people traditionally greet each other by nodding or bowing their heads slightly. It is also common to shake hands while maintaining eye contact. Some people may also say “ni hao” (hello) or “ni chi le ma?” (have you eaten already?), which is a common greeting in the Chinese culture.

6. Are there any significant religious practices or beliefs observed in Hefei?


Hefei is a city with a diverse cultural landscape and hence, there are various religious practices and beliefs observed in the city. The most dominant religions in Hefei are Buddhism, Taoism, and Christianity, followed by smaller communities of Muslims and Catholics.

Buddhism has a long history in Hefei, with many important Buddhist temples located within the city. Some of the most popular ones include Bao’en Temple, which is known for its towering pagoda and large bronze Buddha statue, and Huacheng Temple, which is a famous site for Buddhist meditation.

Taoism also has a significant presence in Hefei. Many Taoist temples can be found scattered throughout the city, such as Liubaohui Temple and Tiantai Mountain Scenic Area. These temples are not only sites of religious worship but also popular tourist destinations due to their scenic locations.

Christianity was introduced to Hefei during the late 19th century by foreign missionaries and has since grown to become one of the major religions in the city. There are several churches in Hefei belonging to different denominations such as Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox.

Other minority religions also have followers in Hefei. The Muslim community has mosques in the city like Xingfu Mosque which caters to the spiritual needs of local Muslims. Similarly, Catholicism has a small presence with places of worship like St. Joseph’s Cathedral serving as centers for religious activities.

Overall, while Buddhism and Taoism remain the dominant religions in Hefei, there is also significant respect for other religious practices and beliefs within the city’s multicultural society.

7. What is the significance of the Dragon Boat Festival in Hefei?


The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday that is widely celebrated in Hefei. The festival falls on the fifth day of the fifth month in the lunar calendar and is marked by dragon boat races, eating zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), and hanging herbs such as Artemisia and Calamus around doors to ward off evil spirits.

The significance of the Dragon Boat Festival in Hefei can be traced back to local legend and historical events. The most popular legend associated with the festival is that of Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet from China’s Warring States Period who drowned himself in the Miluo River on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month after his beloved Chu state was conquered by neighboring Qin. The locals are said to have thrown rice balls into the river to prevent fish from eating Qu Yuan’s body, which led to the tradition of eating zongzi during the festival.

In addition to its cultural and historical significance, an annual dragon boat race has been held in Hefei since 1986, making it one of the earliest cities to host this event in China. The race attracts teams from all over the country and even international teams, adding a festive atmosphere to the city.

Moreover, Hefei boasts a strong connection with agriculture due to its fertile land and rich agricultural resources. As such, herbs play an important role in traditional customs for health and wellness. Hanging herbs like Artemisia and Calamus during the Dragon Boat Festival are believed to ward off diseases and purify homes.

Overall, the Dragon Boat Festival holds great significance for Hefei as it celebrates both local legends and traditions while showcasing its unique culture and spirit through colorful celebrations.

8. Is there a particular art form or craft that is famous in Hefei?

Hefei is known for its traditional Chinese painting and calligraphy, as well as its handcrafted lacquerware and bamboo art. The city also has a vibrant contemporary art scene, with several cultural centers and galleries showcasing local artists’ works in various mediums such as sculpture, ceramics, and mixed media. Hefei is also renowned for its performing arts, with numerous theaters hosting traditional Chinese opera, music concerts, and dance performances.

9. Can you recommend any local markets or shops that offer traditional handicrafts and souvenirs?


Yes, here are some local markets and shops that offer traditional handicrafts and souvenirs:

1. Souq Waqif: This traditional market in Doha is a popular spot for buying traditional handicrafts such as carpets, textiles, pottery, and more.

2. Katara Cultural Village: Located in the West Bay area of Doha, this cultural village has a variety of shops selling traditional Qatari handicrafts like baskets, jewelry, and textiles.

3. Fanar-Qatar Islamic Cultural Center: This center has a gift shop that offers a range of souvenirs like calligraphy art pieces, hand-painted ceramics, and Arabic perfumes.

4. The Pearl Qatar: This luxury shopping destination has a section dedicated to local boutiques selling unique Qatari products such as pearl jewelry, abayas (traditional clothing), and oud (Arabic incense).

5. Al Wajba Souq: Located in the outskirts of Doha, this souq offers a selection of handmade rugs and carpets as well as traditional Qatari clothing and accessories.

6. Al Jasra Handicraft Center: This government-run center showcases the works of local artisans and sells handmade items such as woven baskets, wooden decorations, and ceramics.

7. Tawash Gallery & Gift Market: This gallery features contemporary artwork by local artists along with a gift market that sells handmade crafts such as pottery, paintings, and sculptures.

8. Sheikh Faisal Museum Gift Shop: Located within the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum in Al Shahaniya, this gift shop offers unique souvenirs including antiques, handicrafts, and traditional clothes.

9. MIA Park Gift Shop: The museum gift shop at the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) sells a range of locally made products inspired by exhibits at the museum such as calligraphy prints, silk scarves, and jewelry.

10. How does modernization impact traditional culture and values in Hefei?

Modernization has had a significant impact on traditional culture and values in Hefei, both positively and negatively.

On the positive side, modernization has brought economic development, technological progress, and improved living standards to the city. This has led to increased job opportunities, higher wealth and income levels for many residents, and access to modern amenities such as healthcare, education, and transportation. As a result, people’s overall quality of life has greatly improved.

At the same time, modernization has also led to changes in social norms and traditional practices. As Hefei becomes more urbanized and cosmopolitan, there is a greater emphasis on individualism and materialism. Traditional values such as filial piety, respect for elders, and community cohesion may be perceived as outdated or less important to some individuals.

Moreover, with the rise of technology and media exposure, younger generations are increasingly exposed to Western culture which can influence their behaviors and beliefs. This may lead to a decline in adherence to traditional customs and practices.

Additionally, the rapid pace of modernization can sometimes create tensions between different generations within families or communities. Older generations who maintain strong attachments to traditional values may struggle to adapt to the changing societal norms brought about by modernization.

In some cases, the cultural identity of Hefei may also be threatened as globalization leads to a homogenized global culture dominated by Western influences.

Overall, while modernization brings many benefits to Hefei’s society, it also poses challenges for preserving traditional culture and values. It is important for the city’s authorities and residents to strike a balance between embracing modernization while still valuing and preserving their unique cultural heritage.

11. What are some popular leisure activities enjoyed by locals in their free time?


– Going to the beach or swimming
– Hiking or camping in nature reserves
– Attending sporting events, such as soccer matches
– Visiting amusement parks or theme parks
– Eating at outdoor food and drink markets
– Playing traditional games, such as dominoes or cards with friends
– Shopping at local markets or malls
– Watching movies at the cinema
– Attending cultural festivals or concerts
– Spending time with family and friends at home

12. Has Hefei been influenced by neighboring regions such as Shanghai or Nanjing?


Yes, Hefei has been influenced by neighboring regions such as Shanghai and Nanjing. Due to its close proximity to these major cities, Hefei has experienced a variety of cultural and economic exchanges with them. This includes the sharing of customs, traditions, cuisine, and fashion trends. The development of high-tech industries and infrastructure in Shanghai and Nanjing has also indirectly influenced the growth of similar industries in Hefei. Additionally, many individuals from Hefei may have migrated to or studied in Shanghai or Nanjing for work or education opportunities, bringing back new ideas and experiences that have contributed to the city’s development.

13. Do people speak any distinct dialects or languages besides Mandarin Chinese in Hefei?


In Hefei, people primarily speak Mandarin Chinese, which is the official language of China. However, there are also some distinct dialects spoken in the city. One of them is the Hefei dialect, which shares similarities with the Mandarin dialect but has its own unique pronunciation and vocabulary. Additionally, some locals may also speak other regional languages or dialects such as Wu Chinese or Anhui dialect. English is also becoming increasingly popular in the city, especially among younger generations and expat communities.

14. Is there a local dress code or fashion trend that is unique to Hefei?

There are no specific dress codes or fashion trends that are unique to Hefei. However, the city’s residents tend to dress in a more laid-back and practical style, with a mix of both traditional Chinese clothing and Western-influenced fashion. Traditional Chinese qipao dresses and loose-fitting garments such as the cheongsam are often seen in formal settings, while comfortable and casual clothing such as jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers are popular choices for everyday wear. As Hefei is also home to many universities and Tech companies, you may also see a lot of students and professionals wearing business casual attire.

15. How has Chinese calligraphy played a role in the development of arts and culture in Hefei?


Chinese calligraphy has played a significant role in the development of arts and culture in Hefei, both historically and in modern times.

1. Historical Influence: The city of Hefei has a long history and rich cultural heritage. It was first developed as a cultural center during the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220 AD), when Hefei became the capital of the Xiahou Kingdom. During this time, calligraphy was already an established form of artistic expression, and Hefei was home to many renowned calligraphers who contributed to the city’s cultural growth.

2. Calligraphy Schools: In ancient times, calligraphers from different regions gathered in Hefei to exchange ideas and techniques, leading to the formation of various local calligraphy schools. These schools had a great impact on the development of calligraphy in China as they produced many famous artists whose works are still celebrated today.

3. Preservation of Tradition: As one of the four traditional arts in China (along with painting, poetry, and music), calligraphy played a crucial role in preserving traditional culture in Hefei. Through learning and practicing Chinese calligraphy, people were able to pass down traditional values, beliefs, and customs from one generation to another.

4. Incorporation into Other Art Forms: Chinese calligraphy has also been closely linked with other art forms such as painting and seal carving. In Hefei, artists often combined calligraphy with painting to create unique artworks that were highly prized for their aesthetic value.

5. Cultural Events and Festivals: Many cultural events and festivals in Hefei highlight the importance of Chinese calligraphy in local arts and culture. For example, the annual Qiuzi Calligraphy Festival celebrates both ancient scripts and modern styles while showcasing various artworks created by talented local artists.

6. Cultural Tourism: The popularity of Chinese calligraphy has made it an attractive aspect for tourists visiting Hefei. The city has several historical sites and museums that display calligraphy works, attracting both domestic and international tourists interested in learning about Chinese culture.

Overall, Chinese calligraphy has greatly influenced the development of arts and culture in Hefei by showcasing its traditional values and contributing to the city’s unique cultural identity. It continues to be an essential part of the local art scene, promoting cultural exchange and appreciation for traditional art forms.

16. Are there any notable museums or galleries showcasing Chinese history and art in Hefei?

One notable museum in Hefei showcasing Chinese history and art is the Anhui Museum. This modern museum has a wide collection ranging from ancient artifacts, traditional arts, to contemporary artworks. Another notable gallery is the Hefei Art Palace, which features exhibitions of both Chinese and international artists. Other galleries in Hefei that focus on Chinese history and art include the Wenyuan Gallery and the Hefei Cultural & Creative Park.

17.Who were some important figures from Hefei who have contributed to its cultural heritage?


Some important figures from Hefei who have contributed to its cultural heritage include:

1. Cao Xueqin: He was a famous writer and poet during the Ming dynasty, best known for writing the classic novel “Dream of the Red Chamber.”

2. Li Hongzhang: A statesman and general during the late Qing dynasty, he played a crucial role in modernizing China’s military and political systems.

3. Zhu Renxiu: A renowned calligrapher and painter from Hefei, his works are highly regarded for their elegance and simplicity.

4. Zhou Enlai: One of the founding fathers of the People’s Republic of China, Zhou was born in Hefei and spent his early years there before moving to Beijing.

5. Ji Xianlin: An influential linguist and educator who made significant contributions to Chinese language studies, he also wrote extensively about traditional Chinese culture.

6. Huang Zongxian: An actor and director, Huang is known as “the father of Hefei opera” for his dedication to preserving and promoting local opera traditions.

7. Wang Meng: A contemporary Chinese writer, Wang Meng is best known for his novel “The Stubborn Porridge,” which explores themes of tradition versus modernity.

8. Xu Beihong: A renowned painter and art educator who was born in Hefei, Xu is considered one of the pioneers of modern Chinese art.

9. Zhang Chaoying: As a master craftsman skilled in the art of lacquerware, Zhang has helped revive this traditional art form in Hefei through his meticulous workmanship and innovative designs.

10. Zhao Puchu: A Buddhist leader and scholar from Hefei, Zhao Puchu played a key role in preserving and promoting Buddhism in China after it faced persecution during the Cultural Revolution.

18.What is the role of tea culture in daily life of people living in and around Hefei?


Tea culture plays a significant role in daily life for people living in and around Hefei. Tea holds a special place in Chinese society, being seen as a symbol of hospitality, friendship, and harmony. In Hefei, tea is not just a drink, but it is deeply ingrained in the local traditions and customs.

One of the ways that tea culture impacts daily life is through the ritual of preparing and serving tea. This ritual is considered an art form in China and is often passed down from generation to generation. It is common for families to gather together to enjoy a cup of tea after meals or during social events, providing an opportunity for bonding and relaxation.

Tea also has many health benefits according to traditional Chinese medicine, making it an essential part of people’s daily routines. Many locals believe that drinking certain types of tea can improve digestion, boost immunity, and even prevent certain illnesses.

In addition to its medicinal properties, tea also plays a significant role in social interactions. People often gather at tearooms or teahouses to relax and chat with friends or business associates over a pot of tea. These establishments are essential hubs for networking and building relationships in the city.

Furthermore, the act of giving or receiving tea as a gift is an important cultural tradition in Hefei. It is seen as a gesture of respect, gratitude, or apology depending on the situation. This practice further highlights the significance of tea culture in daily life.

Overall, tea culture has become deeply ingrained in the everyday lives of people living in and around Hefei. Its presence can be felt through family gatherings, social interactions, health practices, and cultural traditions. It serves not only as a tasty beverage but also as an integral part of local identity and customs.

19.How has traditional medicine, such as acupuncture, evolved and been integrated into modern healthcare practices within the city?


In recent years, traditional medicine like acupuncture has gained more recognition and acceptance in modern healthcare practices within the city. This can be attributed to a growing understanding of the effectiveness and benefits of these practices.

One way in which traditional medicine has evolved is through the integration with Western medicine. Many hospitals and clinics now offer both traditional and modern treatments, allowing patients to choose the approach that works best for them. In some cases, doctors are also trained in both traditional and modern methods, allowing them to incorporate elements of traditional medicine into their treatment plans.

Acupuncture, in particular, has become more mainstream and is commonly used as a complementary therapy for various conditions such as pain management, stress relief, and even fertility treatment. It is often integrated into physical therapy or rehabilitation programs for its effectiveness in treating musculoskeletal issues.

Additionally, traditional medicine practitioners have also adapted to modern technology by incorporating tools such as laser acupuncture or electro-acupuncture into their treatments. This allows for more precise targeting of specific points on the body and can enhance the overall effectiveness of the treatment.

Overall, traditional medicine like acupuncture has evolved to become more widely accepted and integrated into modern healthcare practices within the city. Its effectiveness and benefits have been recognized, leading to its incorporation into mainstream healthcare options for patients.

20.What measures has the government taken to preserve and promote traditional customs and cultural events in Hefei?


1. Organizing Cultural Festivals: The city government holds several cultural festivals throughout the year to showcase different traditional customs and promote local arts, crafts, cuisine, and performances.

2. Developing Intangible Cultural Heritage: The Hefei government has identified and listed several intangible cultural heritage items that are unique to the city. They provide support for their preservation and promotion through funding, education, and training.

3. Establishing Cultural Centers: The city has set up various cultural centers that serve as hubs for promoting traditional customs and organizing cultural activities. These include the Hefei Folk Art Museum, Hefei Library, and Hefei Cultural Palace.

4. Strengthening Traditional Crafts: The government provides financial assistance to skilled craftsmen who specialize in traditional crafts like embroidery, bamboo weaving, paper cutting, etc. This helps preserve these crafts and also promotes them as souvenirs or gifts for tourists.

5. Support for Traditional Performances: The city sponsors traditional performance troupes that perform at various events and festivals in Hefei and other cities of Anhui province.

6. Conservation of Historic Sites: Several historic sites in Hefei have been protected and preserved by the government to maintain their cultural significance. These include ancient villages, temples, pagodas, and architectural landmarks.

7. Community Involvement: The government involves local communities in organizing cultural events such as temple fairs, lantern festivals, dragon boat races, etc., ensuring their active participation in preserving traditions.

8. Promotion of Local Cuisine: Hefei is famous for its unique local cuisine such as Huizhou cuisine (Anhui-style), which uses a lot of wild herbs from the surrounding mountains. The city government promotes this cuisine at food festivals to showcase its gastronomic culture.

9. Preservation of Regional Tastes: To preserve the traditional tastes of the region’s cuisine, the city has designated certain restaurants as “Time-Honored Brands,” which have been serving local specialties for generations.

10. Cultural Education and Research: The government provides support for cultural education by establishing a range of institutes dedicated to the study and preservation of Hefei’s customs, history, and culture.

11. Integration of Traditional Customs into Modern Life: To make traditional customs relevant to modern lifestyles, the city government has launched projects that incorporate these customs into everyday life. For example, traditional medicinal herbs are now sold in modern supermarkets.

12. Revitalization of Local Dialects: The official dialect spoken in Hefei is a variation of Mandarin Chinese. However, the government encourages the use and preservation of local dialects like Hui (Anhui) dialect to keep the local culture alive.

13. Support for Minority Cultures: Hefei is home to several minority groups such as She, Tujia, Miao, and Yao ethnicities. The government has initiated projects to preserve their distinct cultural identities by providing support for their traditional performances, costumes, and rituals.

14. Publicity Campaigns: The city government promotes traditional customs through various media channels such as TV shows, magazines, websites, etc., to raise awareness among residents and tourists alike.

15. Collaboration with Cultural Institutions: The government works closely with cultural associations like China Folk Culture Association and Anhui Provincial Cultural Association to organize activities that promote traditional customs in Hefei.

16. Museums and Galleries: In addition to the Folk Art Museum, Hefei has several other museums and galleries that exhibit and preserve artifacts related to local customs and traditions.

17. Development of Tourism Industry: The city’s tourism industry focuses on promoting its rich cultural heritage by offering visitors opportunities to experience traditional customs such as tea ceremonies, folk performances, calligraphy workshops, etc.

18. Incentivizing Cultural Preservation Efforts: The local government offers rewards or recognition for individuals or organizations that contribute significantly to preserving and promoting traditional customs.

19. Preservation of Traditional Clothing: The distinctive attire worn by locals for special occasions, such as the Dragon Boat Festival or the Mid-Autumn Festival, is maintained and encouraged to be passed down through generations.

20. Guidelines for Cultural Protection: The government has introduced regulations and guidelines to protect intangible cultural heritage items and promote responsible tourism, ensuring their sustainability in the long run.