International students make paper cutouts in Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, on Sept 17. [Photo/wifizs.cn]

Over 20 international students from Zhejiang Ocean University joined local residents in learning paper-cutting at the studio of Chen Shiding, a representative inheritor of Shengsi ocean paper-cutting, in Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, on Sept 17.

The event was held in celebration of Mid-Autumn Festival, a traditional Chinese holiday celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, and gave the students a chance to experience the unique charm of this intangible cultural heritage.

Shengsi ocean paper-cutting is a unique and exquisite art form which was included in the sixth batch of intangible cultural heritage protection items in Zhejiang province, announced in January 2023.

International students from Zhejiang Ocean University learn Shengsi ocean paper-cutting in Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, on Sept 17. [Photo/wifizs.cn]

Located in the easternmost part of Zhejiang province and the northernmost part of the Zhoushan Islands, Shengsi county is known for its vast waters, numerous islands, and abundance of fish.

It has developed a strong maritime culture, which gave rise to the distinctive art of Shengsi ocean paper-cutting.

As a marine-style Chinese folk paper-cutting art, Shengsi ocean paper-cutting usually features depictions of the sea and the daily life and work of fishermen.