Recently, some cartoon-style Lu Xun commemorative badges have become a hot seller in automatic vending machines at popular tourist spots like Lanting Scenic Area during the summer travel boom.

A staff member shows the Lu Xun series commemorative badges in Shaoxing, Zhejiang province. [Photo/ Tide News]

Produced by Zhejiang Yijin Cultural Development, these badges use celebrity and regional cultural elements, proving that small items can tap into a big market.

The Lu Xun series consists of six badges inspired by From the Baicao Garden to the Sanwei Study, Village Opera, Young Runtu, and The True Story of Ah Q. Characters like Lu Xun, Runtu, and Ah Q are depicted in cute cartoon styles, particularly appealing to young tourists.

The From the Baicao Garden to the Sanwei Study badge shows middle-aged Lu Xun holding a lollipop bearing the Chinese character for "early", reminiscing about his childhood, while the reverse side depicts a private school teacher disciplining students.

The Village Opera badge features a traditional opera stage on the front and a group of young friends on the back, reflecting Lu Xun's nostalgia for his youth. The badges feature vivid character designs, dynamic poses, and backgrounds rich in Jiangnan water town characteristics. They interpret Shaoxing's famous cultural heritage while aligning with modern trends for youthful and culturally rich souvenir gifts.

Yu Jiwei, head of Zhejiang Yijin Cultural Development, transitioned from Keqiao's home textile industry to commemorative coins and badges. He says that good cultural souvenirs represent local customs and serve as cultural representatives of the city, extending and spreading cultural heritage. The souvenir boom happening across China signifies alignment between cultural confidence and the cultural and creative industry. Future plans include Keqiao Ancient Town, Keyan, and Lanting commemorative coins to promote Shaoxing's culture globally.