|

Xiashi lanterns from Haining, a county-level city of Jiaxing, Zhejiang province, are on display at the Hangzhou National Archives of Publications and Culture. [Photo/jiaxingren.com]

A Haining Xiashi lantern exhibition is currently underway at the Hangzhou National Archives of Publications and Culture, attracting throngs of visitors.

More than 130 lanterns, including 18 sets of traditional lanterns, 16 sets of exquisite hanging lanterns, 24 butterfly lanterns, and 80 atmosphere hanging lanterns, are on display at the exhibition, creating a festive atmosphere for both the Spring Festival and the Lantern Festival.

The exhibition will last until the end of February.

Live performances and interactive activities of lantern masters will also be held throughout the duration of the exhibition.

Haining Xiashi lanterns, boasting a rich history of more than 1,200 years, originated in the Tang Dynasty (618-907) and flourished in the Song Dynasty (960-1279). They were once listed as tribute to the imperial court.

Renowned at home and abroad, the lanterns exude a unique and refined craftsmanship. In 2002, Haining was named the hometown of Chinese folk culture and art with the lanterns, and in 2006, the lanterns were listed as a national intangible cultural heritage item.