A special event held in Longguan township of Ningbo, Zhejiang province, on March 8, celebrated the role of heritage crafts in rural vitalization.

Located in the ecologically rich Siming Mountain area, Longguan township boasts an ideal environment for tea cultivation. With abundant rainfall and pristine nature, the region has been known for its quality tea since the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

Yang Jinliang, a master of making Ningbo's black tea, introduced "Mingzhou Hong", a tea brand that combines traditional techniques with modern sustainability.

"We use low-carbon withering technology to precisely control temperature and humidity, preserving the tea's active enzymes while reducing energy consumption by 30 percent," Yang said.

By integrating a carbon footprint management system, "Mingzhou Hong" produces only 14.06 kilograms of carbon emissions per kg, making it the first black tea brand in China to receive carbon label certification. In 2022, it gained international recognition at UN's COP15 biodiversity conference, putting Longguan's tea on the global stage.

Beyond production, Yang has embraced experiential tourism by offering tea-making experiences at his farm.

Another cherished heritage craft is Zhangshui hand-cut noodles, also known as Zhangcun noodles. Traditionally made using alkaline water, hand-kneading, and sun-drying, it's a taste of home for many Ningbo natives.

"In the past, handmade noodles were produced in small workshops with low output and inconsistent hygiene standards. Young people saw no future in it," said Xu Jianing, founder of the noodle brand "Zhangxi Xiaoniang". Returning from overseas studies, she took a bold step — leaving a stable job to modernize the century-old tradition.

In 2018, Xu Jianing transformed an old factory into a standardized production facility, preserving traditional methods while incorporating modern equipment. Now, the factory produces over 1,000 kg of noodles daily, supplying both local markets and nationwide e-commerce platforms.

"We've developed smaller and gift-boxed versions, along with new flavors like spinach and pumpkin. Through short videos and livestreams, we bring the noodle-making process to audiences everywhere," Xu Jianing said, "Tradition isn't about staying the same — it's the foundation for innovation."

Longguan is also home to the traditions of "Dragon Head Raising Festival", which dates back to Tang Dynasty (618-907). Villagers celebrate with dragon dances, rituals, and parades, praying for prosperity and good harvests.

"By integrating intangible heritage with ecology and industry, we are driving rural development," said Xu Shangzhi, a local official.

Visitors to Longguan can explore its cultural and natural attractions, from the Five Dragon Pool scenic area to the Biodiversity-Friendly Experience Center. Along the tea route, they can witness solar-powered villages, admire bamboo carvings, and enjoy locally brewed "waterfall coffee".

"We are creating a beautiful countryside where people can see the mountains, enjoy the rivers, and remember their roots," Xu Shangzhi added.