Qin Shiqi shows off her products at her store in Nantong. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

Nestled in the historic and cultural community of Sijie Block in Nantong, East China's Jiangsu province, the unique QiQi creative cultural product store has become a must-visit destination for locals and tourists.

Founded by Qin Shiqi, a young native of Nantong, the store offers an array of original cultural creations that embody the essence of Nantong.

Qin, originally a science graduate, returned to her hometown after three years of working elsewhere, driven by a deep connection to her roots. She began her entrepreneurial journey in a small studio near Nantong Museum, focusing on the demand for local cultural products.

Despite not having formal training in art, Qin's passion for drawing fuels her creativity. She draws inspiration from the vibrant street life and local tales, collaborating with artists to refine her designs before mass production. The store now boasts over 10 categories of products, including hand-drawn postcards, fridge magnets and keychains, all featuring Nantong's landmarks and traditions.

Among the bestsellers are the acrylic fridge magnets inspired by the traditional Tongzhou woodblock prints, a provincial intangible cultural heritage item. With 60 percent of sales coming from local residents, her creations have become popular gifts and social media sensations.

Through her dedication, hard work and passion, Qin not only celebrates Nantong's cultural heritage but also breathes new life into it, allowing visitors to take home a piece of the city's soul.