Monday, January 27, 2025 Shanghai has become the epicenter of celebrations following UNESCO’s inclusion of China’s Spring Festival on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Recognized on December 4, 2024, the Spring Festival embodies traditions that emphasize communal spirit and the celebration of the Chinese New Year. For Shanghai, this designation is not just an honor but a tourism boon, elevating the city as a must-visit destination for the 2025 Spring Festival season.
The global recognition highlights the Spring Festival’s ability to foster unity and preserve cultural practices. It underscores Shanghai’s role in safeguarding and showcasing this heritage to the world, making it a compelling destination for travelers seeking unique cultural experiences. One of the main attractions this year is the Shanghai Lantern Festival, a millennia-old tradition that continues to captivate locals and visitors alike.
The 2025 festival draws inspiration from the “Classic of Mountains and Seas,” an ancient Chinese text, with the theme “The Beauty of All Things, the Wonder of Existence.” The lantern displays transform areas like Yuyuan Garden into mythical landscapes filled with vibrant flowers, winding snakes, lush greenery, and illuminated butterflies. The intricate craftsmanship and artistry of these lanterns highlight the enduring value of folk traditions.
Lantern art from historic locales such as Nanxiang, Luodian in Baoshan, Fengjing i.
