Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) represents the diverse array of traditions, expressions, and practices that communities have inherited from their ancestors and are committed to preserving for future generations. It encompasses a range of elements, including knowledge, skills, rituals, music, dance, language, and other forms of expression. China has been highly proactive in safeguarding these invaluable assets. Keeping scroll down for further information on how you can enhance your tour of China!
Chinese shadow puppetry
Chinese shadow puppetry is a form of theatre comprising colourful silhouette figures made from leather or paper, accompanied by music and singing. The puppets are manipulated by puppeteers using rods, creating the illusion of moving images on a translucent cloth screen illuminated from behind. Many of the more experienced shadow puppetry artists are able to perform a wide range of traditional plays, which are either passed down through oral tradition or found in written form. They possess a range of specialised skills, including improvisational singing, falsetto, simultaneous manipulation of multiple puppets, and the ability to play a variety of musical instruments.
Traditional tea processing techniques
China's traditional tea processing techniques and associated social practices encompass the knowledge, skills and practices related to tea plantation management, tea-leaf picking, manual processing, drinking and sharing. In accordance with natural conditions and local customs, tea producers have developed six categories of tea: green, yellow, dark, white, oolong and black teas. The addition of reprocessed teas, such as flower-scented teas, results in over 2,000 tea products with a variety of colours, aromas, flavours and shapes. Tea is an integral part of Chinese culture, consumed on a daily basis in a variety of settings, including homes, workplaces, tea houses, restaurants and temples. (Read more: Explore The Birthplaces Of China's Tea, 6 Types of Chinese Tea You Have to Try)
Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a traditional physical practice for relaxed, circular movements that work in concert with breath regulation and the cultivation of a righteous and neutral mind. The practice originated in the mid-17th century in Wenxian County, Henan Province, China. It is now practised throughout the country by people of all ages and from a variety of ethnic backgrounds. The fundamental movements of Tai Chi are based on the principles of five steps and eight techniques, encompassing a range of routines, exercises and tuishou (hand-pushing skills performed with a partner). The element has been influenced by Daoist and Confucian thought, as well as traditional Chinese medicine theories, and has developed into several styles named after a clan or a master's personal name.