Ancient dough art enjoys revival in Shanxi

Zhi Jiankang from Wenxi county, North China's Shanxi province, has tried to revive the ancient art of huamo over the years. He is now a provincial inheritor of the skill that was named a national intangible cultural heritage in 2008.

Huamo mostly refers to a local distinctive flour and flower-shaped buns, which can be traced back to the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties.

Whenever celebrations or major events take place, locals roll out huamo to entertain guests for auspicious outcomes in the future. The flour treat has been known for its exquisite design and ingenious conception. It is closely related to local etiquette and customs and is widely used in festivals, weddings, birthdays, funerals, housewarmings, and many other occasions.