Celebrating Cultural Heritage: Roots of Oracle Bone Civilization Launch in China

On July 13, 2026, a significant milestone was reached in the promotion of Chinese culture as the 'Roots of Oracle Bone Civilization' IP was launched in Anyang, Henan Province. This event marked the 20th anniversary of Yinxu's recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site, emphasizing the need to preserve and innovate upon ancient cultural practices. The initiative was a collaborative effort between China Daily and the Anyang municipal government, aiming to introduce the rich legacy of oracle bone script and Shang civilization to a global audience.

The launch event was attended by notable figures such as Zhu Baoxia, deputy publisher of China Daily; Ning Hongliang, head of Anyang's publicity department; and Li Xiaoyang, director of the Anyang cultural heritage bureau. Their presence underscored the initiative's importance in fortifying the cultural ties between past and present, as well as the ongoing commitment to cultural preservation.

Yinxu, recognized as the last capital of the Shang Dynasty, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2006. Over the past twenty years, the significance of Yinxu has grown, with Anyang continuously enhancing the protection, research, interpretation, and creative expression of the site. The oracle bone script, a unique writing system from ancient China, along with the broader Shang civilization, has garnered attention both domestically and internationally.

The newly launched IP, termed 'Roots of Oracle Bone Civilization', symbolizes China Daily's latest endeavor to fulfil the principles of cultural heritage protection and the Global Civilization Initiative. The IP focuses on four thematic pillars—Bronze, Jade, City, and Writing—and will be disseminated through China Daily's extensive cultural knowledge platform, which serves over 50 countries and regions.

During the launch, Zhu Baoxia explained that the IP aims to engage audiences in an innovative manner, integrating traditional cultural elements with modern technology. This approach seeks to portray Chinese culture as vibrant and accessible to younger generations while fostering a deeper understanding of its historical roots. The Kunlun cultural platform, responsible for developing this initiative, aims to meld technology with cultural innovation to provide a more immersive experience for users.

As part of the initiative, a series of collaborations with the Yinxu Museum will also be established, allowing for an array of follow-up projects and engagements that further delve into the cultural riches of the oracle bone civilization. Ning Hongliang highlighted the IP as a vital step in implementing a cultural power strategy, which seeks to enhance and promote Chinese culture on the global stage.

The 'Roots of Oracle Bone Civilization' IP illustrates the innovative and adaptive spirit that is essential in the effort to keep ancient scripts alive. The project will migrate oracle bone inscriptions into various formats that include visual narratives, digital content, and interactive experiences. This transition not only aims to move the script from academic confines to a broader public understanding but also seeks to develop a cultural brand associated with the rich history of China.

The initiative reflects a conscious effort to transform an important cultural heritage into a living part of contemporary society. In doing so, it connects the past with the present, creating opportunities for education and engagement through digital tools and innovative storytelling. By breathing new life into ancient writings, the initiative lays down a framework for reinterpreting the depth of Chinese civilization and its wide array of philosophies, artifacts, and values.

In summary, the launch of the 'Roots of Oracle Bone Civilization' is an ambitious and forward-thinking project, showcasing the enduring legacy of one of China's earliest forms of writing. It embodies a commitment to cultural excellence and engagement, ensuring that the stories of the past resonate within the context of today's globalized world.