Lanterns light way for Shanxi village

Jiao Tingting, 25, has been learning the art of lantern-making from her grandfather since childhood, progressing from bamboo lanterns to modern foldable ones. "In traditional Chinese culture, lanterns are often seen as symbols of good fortune, prosperity and reunion," she said.

Lanterns not only illuminate but also carry rich cultural connotations and symbolic meanings, and have evolved into a decorative item.

The tradition of lantern-making in Yangzhao dates back to the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. In 2008, "traditional lantern making craft of Yangzhao village" was listed in the first batch of city-level intangible cultural heritage in Yuncheng, the village's administrative city.