The launch ceremony and main venue activities of the "Cultural and Natural Heritage Day" promotional campaign in Jiangsu province were held on June 14 in Haimen district, Nantong.

The ceremony unfolded with classical guqin (a seven-stringed zither) melodies interwoven with dynamic dance performances, followed by successive demonstrations of Jiangsu's intangible cultural heritage (ICH).

At the main venue, an expansive fair showcased 100 representative ICH items in four immersive zones: "Gourmet Delights" highlighting culinary traditions, "Exquisite Crafts" showcasing artisan mastery, "Trendy Handmade Creations" fusing heritage with modern design, and "Wellness & Fitness" promoting healthy practices. Innovative initiatives like cultural consumption vouchers and collaborative promotions injected significant energy into these experiential spaces.

Notable engagements included the Nantong mint oil extraction technique demonstration, where artisans processed the region's globally renowned "Asian Fragrance" mint — celebrated for its high oil yield. Nearby, sports enthusiasts gathered around handwoven rush-grass fans featuring Jiangsu Football City League motifs, which emitted a distinctive herbal fragrance when used.

One hundred key activities — 50 focusing on cultural relics and 50 on ICH — were also unveiled. A total of 1,262 events, including thematic exhibitions, academic exchanges, and cultural experiences, will be held both online and offline, allowing residents to enjoy diverse cultural offerings close to home.

A stall showcasing Nantong mint oil extraction attracts many visitors. [Photo/Jiangnan Times]