Jinhua's bamboo industry: Crafting tradition, prosperity

"Bamboo wife," a traditional hollow cylinder-shaped bamboo cooling artifact. [Photo/Jinhua Media Group]

The "bamboo wife," a traditional hollow cylinder-shaped bamboo cooling artifact from Pan'an county in Jinhua, Zhejiang province, has gained popularity. Jinhua's expansive bamboo forests support diverse bamboo species, enriching local crafts and industries.

Jinhua's climate and mountainous terrain are ideal for various bamboo species, which offer both practical and aesthetic value.

Spring bamboo shoots are a seasonal delicacy in Jinhua, with consumption from early spring to May. Locals have developed preservation methods like freezing and drying to enjoy this taste year-round.

Beyond culinary uses, Jinhua artisans transform bamboo into crafts. The "bamboo wife," a classic example of bamboo weaving, has been popular since the Tang and Song dynasties (618-1279).

Hualong Crafts Factory in Pan'an uses durable bamboo to create hollow, breathable items that can also hold fragrant herbs for added cooling and scent. The products serve not only as cooling items but also as home decorations, and are sold in Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia.

The bamboo industry is also crucial for rural vitalization. Wuyi county focuses on efficient moso bamboo cultivation, enhancing market value. Wucheng district's Shafan township hosts the Nanshan Bamboo Culture Festival, promoting bamboo culture through events and products, supported by e-commerce and tourism.

By moving beyond the traditional single-planting and rough-processing model, Jinhua's bamboo industry integrates ecological, economic, and cultural values, supporting rural prosperity and preserving traditional craftsmanship.