When it comes to cherishing cultural roots, Sichuan prides itself on its remarkable resilience after experiencing one of the most damaging earthquakes in China’s history.

Aiming to build a platform to promote, protect and debate intangible cultural heritage, the 2nd International Festival of Intangible Cultural Heritage was held in the capital city of Sichuan province, Chengdu, on June 1.

The opening ceremony, which lasted nearly two hours, showcased Chinese folk arts and foreign performances.

“By hosting the festival, we will reinforce the role of cultural reconstruction as an important part of the reconstruction work of Sichuan, and strengthen to save and protect the intangible cultural heritage,” said Cai Wu, Minister of Culture of China during the ceremony.

Drum Performance on High Platforms, Jishan Anfu Art School Group of Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province

The festival, organized by the Ministry of Culture of China, the Sichuan Provincial People’s Government and the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), will feature a collection of cultural shows and performances, an exhibition of intangible cultural heritage, and a forum on protecting intangible cultural heritage.

During the two-day forum, officials and experts from around the world will voice their concern on how to best preserve the intangible cultural heritage, particularly when natural disasters occurs.

The 2nd International Festival of Intangible Cultural Heritage will last two weeks and end on June 13.

By Hu Zhicheng