The ancient art of Longquan celadon porcelain making continues to flourish in Xitou village, where generations of artisans have preserved techniques dating back 1,400 years. This Zhejiang province community, recently honored as one of UNWTO’s Best Tourism Villages 2024, serves as a living museum of China’s ceramic heritage.
Living Legacy of Celadon Craftsmanship
Xitou’s porcelain tradition remains vibrantly alive through:
- Seven operational ancient kilns, including a remarkable snake-shaped kiln built into the mountainside
- UNESCO-recognized wood-fired techniques (inscribed in 2009 as Intangible Cultural Heritage)
- Family workshops maintaining traditional methods while adapting to modern tourism
Cultural Preservation Through Sustainable Tourism
The village’s inclusion in the UNWTO program highlights its successful model of heritage conservation through responsible tourism. Visitors can witness the complete celadon production process – from local clay preparation to the distinctive jade-green glazing that made Longquan ware famous across ancient trade routes.
“Xitou represents how cultural heritage can drive community development,” explains local artisan Master Chen. “Every piece we create carries forward techniques perfected by our ancestors while supporting our village’s future.”
The celadon tradition, dating to China’s Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), continues to evolve in Xitou, where contemporary artisans balance preservation with innovation, ensuring this living heritage remains relevant for new generations.
Related Topic:
- Nashville Airport Preps for Memorial Day with Better Services, Accessibility
- U.S. Joins Global Travel Warnings, Urges Citizens to Avoid Israel
- WTTC Taps Manfredi Lefebvre to Lead Global Tourism as New Chair in 2025
