Beijing Review

The Light Never Dies

The sight of an octogenarian sitting at the entrance of a centuries-old structure, skillfully crafting lanterns, creates a captivating and distinctive scene in the Potan Ancient Town, nestled within Xianju County, Zhejiang Province.

With a history spanning over 1,000 years, this town is quietly hidden from the majority of visitors who are unaware of its presence. Even fewer still are acquainted with its exceptional tradition of lantern making.

The octogenarian is local resident Wang Rulan, an inheritor of the town’s cherished cultural heritage in lantern craftsmanship.

Her foray into the realm of lantern making began as a hobby, inspired by her uncle. However, it wasn’t until

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