On May 22, the 21st China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) opened at the Shenzhen International Convention and Exhibition Center. The exhibition lasted for five days, with 52 sub-venues displaying 120,000 cultural products, and more than 400 cultural industry investment and financing projects were showcased and traded on site. As one of the cultural elements in the Anhui Pavilion, the Wangmantian Fish Lanterns from Xitou Town, Shexian County, participated in the on-site exhibition.

Stepping into the pavilion, the fish lanterns hanging in rows caught the eye with their striking "Chinese red," each imbued with the warmth and craftsmanship of intangible cultural heritage artisans, attracting visitors to stop and admire. They complemented the nearby inkstone exhibition area, prompting everyone to take out their phones for photos, making it a popular spot for taking memorable shots. 

In recent years, Xitou Town in Shexian County has been developing the fish lantern as a key industry, leading to the emergence of related sectors such as fish lantern performances, cultural and creative products inspired by fish lanterns, and educational excursions centered around fish lanterns. With the inheritance and promotion of fish lantern culture, these performances have also spurred the development of related industries in Wangmantian Village and its surrounding areas, including dining, educational excursions, and leisure activities. Since 2025, the area has attracted over 30,000 visitors, driving more than 1 million yuan in revenue for local homestays, restaurants, and fish lantern businesses. 

The impressive showcase of Wangmantian Fish Lanterns at the Cultural Industries Fair was a successful cultural dissemination effort. It not only raised awareness and fostered a love for intangible cultural heritage among a wider audience but also injected new vitality into the preservation of traditional culture. 

Source: anhuinews.com