Caoxian County in east China’s Shandong Province has recently gained unexpected fame thanks to viral short videos on Douyin, China’s equivalent of TikTok. But beyond the internet sensation lies a thriving industry that has quietly reshaped this small county’s economy and culture.
For years, Caoxian has been the country’s largest manufacturing hub for performance costumes and Hanfu, traditional Chinese clothing that has experienced a significant resurgence. The Hanfu movement has reignited interest in China’s ancient attire, with young people embracing these historical garments in daily life and cultural events.
Wei Xin, a writer born in Caoxian, returned to his hometown after many years away. He discovered that livestreaming e-commerce has revolutionized the garment industry in Caoxian. Local artisans and entrepreneurs now leverage online platforms to promote and sell their Hanfu designs to a nationwide audience.
This digital transformation has not only boosted the local economy but also encouraged many former residents who had sought opportunities in big cities to return home. They are starting businesses, opening workshops, and contributing to the revitalization of Caoxian’s traditional crafts.
The fusion of modern technology with ancient traditions in Caoxian exemplifies how small communities can harness digital tools to preserve cultural heritage while fostering economic growth. As Hanfu continues to gain popularity, Caoxian stands at the forefront of this cultural renaissance, attracting attention from across China and the world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
