Reed weaving still thrives 600 years later in Damatou town, Guangrao county, Dongying city of East China's Shandong province.
The plaque crafted by reed weaving in Dongying's Damatou town. [Photo/WeChat account: wenlvdongying]
Damatou town has long been known for its rich reed resources, and reed weaving has been a mainstay here since the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644 AD). Recognized today as a city-level intangible cultural heritage, the craft is preserved by artisans Xu Zunxing and Xu Zunxia, who guide a team devoted to passing down this skill.
In the Damatou Reed Weaving Heritage Center, reeds are carefully transformed through peeling, flattening, and weaving into elegant, eco-friendly products like baskets, storage boxes, and bags - each piece a blend of artistry and tradition.
In recent years, Damatou reed weaving has expanded into nearly a hundred product types crafted yearly, bringing the craft to domestic markets and over 20 countries in Europe and Southeast Asia. These refined products have become a vibrant emblem of Damatou's heritage.
Reed weaving products from Dongying's Damotou town. [Photo/WeChat account: wenlvdongying]
Looking ahead, Damatou reed weaving aims to innovate and grow, keeping this traditional craft alive and thriving in the modern world.
