In an old store in Zhongshan's Xiaolan Town, 11-year-old He Zihao is helping his father sort out the materials for lantern making. This is not only his home, but also the place where the six-hundred-year-old "Xiaolan Lantern Making Skills" are being passed down through generations.

He Zihao has spent his entire childhood in the store that was founded by his grandfather in 1994.

His father He Honghui immerses himself in lantern craftsmanship, constantly refining materials and techniques, while his mother designs innovative patterns on the computer. The couple upholds traditions while pioneering modern interpretations of China's intangible cultural heritage.

Xiaolan lantern-making craftsmanship dates back to the Ming Dynasty, with a legacy spanning over 600 years. In 2015, the tradition was included in Zhongshan's Intangible Cultural Heritage List, and in 2022, He Honghui was named a representative inheritor of intangible cultural heritage.

▲ He Honghui guides his son in measuring bamboo strips.

▲ He Zihao learns how to fold bamboo strips.

▲ Sandpaper is used to smooth the lantern frame.

▲ Handmade lanterns come to life under the glow of light.

▲ He Honghui shows his son a finished handmade lantern.

▲ He Honghui teaches his son how to paste paper onto the lantern.

▲ He Zihao plays with a lantern in front of the store.

▲ Whenever he has free time, He Honghui shares the stories and traditions of lantern-making with his son. (Photo/Yu Zhaoyu)