Guyuan: A tapestry of history and modernity in Ningxia

The light festival in Guyuan. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Guyuan in Ningxia Hui autonomous region's unique charm lies in its profound historical heritage, pristine natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural soul, with its distinctive local culture representing the region's greatest developmental potential. Recognized nationwide as China's "Hometown of Literature", "Hometown of Poetry", "Hometown of Calligraphy", and "Hometown of Folk Arts".

Guyuan boasts incredibly rich folk traditions. Ancient myths and legends like Fuxi's birth at Chaonaqiu Lake, Wei Zheng's dream execution of the Jinghe dragon, and the romantic tale of Liu Yi delivering letters have been passed down through generations. 

The region's folk arts continue to enchant with the haunting melodies of Liupan Mountains "hua'er" folk songs, the vibrant tunes of Qin opera mouth harps, and the poetic verses of Chuanguan performances.

Wei's Brick Carving inheritor crafts an artwork. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Guyuan boasts a wide array of intangible cultural heritage, with Yang's clay sculpture, Wei's brick carving, Gaotai Mashehuo and Yuanzhou ancient architecture being recognized as national-level intangible cultural treasures.

Guyuan's rich culinary culture boasts nationally renowned delicacies such as Yuanzhou district's five-spice lamb head, Xiji's "nine bowls and thirteen glowers" banquet, and Longde warm pot, each representing the region's distinctive gastronomic heritage.

Guyuan, designated as a national pilot zone for the innovative development of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is the hometown of Huangfu Mi, the founding master of acupuncture. 

The Guyuan Hospital of TCM has established the Huangfu Mi Rehabilitation Center, which provides specialized healthcare services to the public using Huangfu Mi's signature techniques, including acupuncture, moxibustion, and therapeutic massage, contributing to the city's "Healthy Guyuan" initiative.