#Cultural Heritage #Hanfu Month #China National Silk Museum

Experience the Beauty of Intangible Cultural Heritage

The 2025 'Chinese Hanfu Month - Celestial Craftsmanship and Heavenly Garments', launched at the China National Silk Museum, is an extraordinary celebration of the Hanfu culture and its intangible cultural heritage (ICH). Held on May 10-11, 2025, this enchanting event deeply emphasized the traditional textile artistry that has defined Hanfu over the centuries.

A Look Back at Hanfu Culture

Hanfu, the traditional clothing of the Han dynasty, is more than just a costume; it encapsulates history, artistry, and the cultural identity of the Chinese people. The 2025 event aims to not only showcase beautiful garments but also highlight the skills and craftsmanship involved in creating these historical outfits. The digital age has revolutionized the methods of showcasing traditional practices, igniting discussions around preserving ancient techniques in a contemporary context.

Thematic Exhibition: Bridging History and Modernity

During the event, a key exhibition titled “Bridging Eras Costume Design in 'Lychees of Chang'an'” caught the attention of attendees. This interactive display examined ways in which modern film and television reinterpret and revitalize traditional culture, ensuring that the essence of Hanfu lives on. By analyzing historical clothing alongside contemporary adaptations, the exhibition invites dialogue among enthusiasts and scholars alike.

Highlights of the Event

Among the numerous highlights were academic forums that brought together national ICH inheritors and scholars. Topics included:

• - West Lake silk parasols
• - Woodblock printing techniques
• - Zhe-style guqin
• - Fan-making craftsmanship

These discussions focused on the digital preservation of textile techniques, ICH’s impact on modern fashion design, and strategies to engage younger generations with traditional crafts. This academic rigor creates an atmosphere where tradition meets innovation.

The event also provided audiences with immersive experiences, featuring live demonstrations of ICH, such as Linping Rolling Lanterns, performances of Hangzhou Tanhuang opera, and Xiaorehu storytelling. Attendees could further participate in interactive activities, such as the “ICH Discovery Challenge” scavenger hunt, designed to educate and engage the public about intangible cultural heritage.

Hanfu Night: A Mesmerizing Fashion Show

The pinnacle of the 'Hanfu Month' experience was the evocative Hanfu Night, which followed the theme of “Celestial Craftsmanship and Heavenly Garments.” Six research teams showcased intricately reconstructed historical Hanfu, embodying a blend of art and heritage. The research team behind the “Lychees of Chang'an” presented stunning Tang Dynasty attire, with insights from director Cao Dun, who elaborated on the intricate design, etiquette, and craftsmanship involved, proving the influential role of TV dramas in reviving cultural practices.

Partnerships and Future Aspirations

On-site, the China National Silk Museum entered into a framework Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with CCTV-affiliated China Vision Media Group. This collaboration will focus on co-developing silk-inspired products, harnessing unique textile patterns alongside cultural IP initiatives like the forthcoming documentary, **