On this China Tourism Day, May 19, 2026, the tranquil villages of Lingnan in Shunde, Guangdong Province, are drawing attention to a remarkable piece of intangible cultural heritage: Xiangyunsha.
Often referred to as "soft gold," Xiangyunsha is a unique variety of mulberry silk that literally breathes with the sun. This exquisite fabric is the result of a harmonious blend of nature and human skill, utilizing cinnamon vines (Dioscorea cirrhosa) and the golden rays of the sun to achieve its distinctive, organic hue.
The creation of Xiangyunsha is an arduous and intricate journey. The process involves over 30 handcrafted steps, each requiring precision and patience. In an era of mass production, this craft remains stubbornly resistant to mechanization; no machine can replicate the delicate touch and environmental synergy required to produce the fabric. It holds the distinction of being the world's only silk dyed exclusively with pure plant pigments.
For the inheritors of this tradition, the craft is more than just textile production—it is a preservation of the ancestral wisdom of the Lingnan region. As global interest in sustainable fashion and artisanal craftsmanship grows, the "soft gold" of Shunde stands as a testament to the enduring value of heritage in a modern world, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes and industrial manufacturing.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
