China Buzz: Discover Beijing through the craft of ronghua

Looking for a new and exciting way to experience Chinese culture when you’re in Beijing? Then try making a piece of Chinese culture with your own hands!

Ronghua, or traditional Chinese velvet flowers, is a time-honored Chinese handicraft known for its delicate beauty and rich cultural significance. Beyond just flowers, the craft also includes animal figures made by winding silk around a twisted wire frame.

The name ronghua echoes a Chinese expression associated with prosperity and glory, and the craft carries an auspicious meaning that reflects one's wishes for happiness, peace and a better life.

Today, this traditional craft is finding new life through contemporary designs — from elegant hairpins to earrings to everyday attire. Ronghua workshops are also drawing large crowds of young Chinese people and international visitors curious to learn how simple strands of silk can be transformed, petal by petal, into a lifelike flower.

As "China Travel" continues to grow, exploring Beijing has become more than visiting famous landmarks. Being able to have hands-on experience with a traditional craft offers tourists an entertaining and educational way to experience Chinese culture up close. Follow China Buzz and discover more fun ways to experience Beijing.