Shigang Xungao cake, a traditional rice cake in Tongzhou district, Nantong, Jiangsu province, has recently been included in the fifth group of provincial representative intangible cultural heritage items, as well as the expansion project list.

Xungao cake, with a history of over 150 years, is a distinctive traditional pastry in Shigang town. The intricate process of making it involves soaking rice for a week, changing the water daily, grinding the drained rice into powder, filling it with prepared stuffing, and then undergoing steps like imprinting, steaming, and cooling.

Xungao cake is only sold during a brief two-month period each year, typically from March to May.

In 2016, the traditional craft of making Xungao cake was recognized and included in the fourth group of intangible cultural heritage protection items in Tongzhou.

Shigang Xungao cake. [Photo/WeChat account: wxtzfb]