Tourism, rising awareness save folk arts (2)

"These folk arts were used by local people to pass down their cultures and history," said Hou Huizhe, deputy secretary-general of China Arts and Crafts Association.

"With the development of the tourism industry, production of handicrafts as souvenirs is also an important way for locals to boost their income," she added.

In the suburbs of Kaili, the capital city of Qiandongnan prefecture, many locals rely on silver crafting to make a living. In some villages, about 80 percent of the residents are traditional silversmiths or involved in the trade.

Huang Zhongxue produces some 400 silver ornaments every year. He said the most expensive piece he makes can sell for more than 10,000 yuan.

"Thanks to the booming tourism industry, I earned more than 100,000 yuan from silver crafting last year," he said.

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