The recently released Suzhou municipal-level intangible cultural heritage item list included five from Zhangjiagang, a county-level city in Suzhou.
1. The story of Jianzhen's journey to Japan: During the Tang Dynasty (618-907), a monk named Jianzhen successfully brought Buddhism to Japan, along with Chinese sculpture, painting, architecture, language, and medicine. His first five attempts to sail from Yangzhou failed, but his sixth attempt, launched from Zhangjiagang, proved successful.
Sanxing Drum and Gong Performance. [Photo/WeChat account: zhangjiagangfabu365]
2. Sanxing Drum and Gong Performance: This traditional performance uses four instruments: the large copper gong, small copper gong, cymbal, and drum. It serves to enhance the atmosphere during festivals and celebratory events.
3. Miao's Internal Medicine: A traditional medical practice with over 120 years of history, specializing in the treatment of liver, spleen, and stomach diseases.
A Water Goddess Temple Fair in Leyu town, Zhangjiagang. [Photo/WeChat account: zhangjiagangfabu365]
4. Leyu Water Goddess Temple Fair: This event combines multiple cultural elements, providing a platform for the preservation of various intangible cultural heritage items.
5. Suzhou-style pastry making technique: With over a century of history, this technique has been refined to suit modern tastes while preserving traditional Suzhou pastry-making methods.
Suzhou-style pastries. [Photo/WeChat account: zhangjiagangfabu365]
Additionally, Zhangjiagang Daqin Jewelry has been added to the ICH preserver list. The company specializes in pearl production, processing, and sales. Its products are sold worldwide, and the company plays a significant role in the preservation of traditional craftsmanship.