Jingjiang – the county-level city, administered by Taizhou city, in East China's Jiangsu province – has a deep cultural and historical connection with the great Yangtze River.
The city's formation can be traced back to the transformative forces of the Yangtze River, which turned an isolated island into the thriving land of Jingjiang that exists today.
With a recorded history dating back to its establishment as a county in 1471 AD, Jingjiang has attracted significant figures throughout ancient times.
Notable individuals such as Sun Quan (182-252), who ruled the state of Eastern Wu during the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280) and Yue Fei, a patriotic general from the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279), have left their mark on the city.
The people of Jingjiang have flourished along the banks of the Yangtze River, enjoying a life of abundance and pursuing artistic endeavors.
Bamboo holds great significance in their culture, with bamboo forests present near almost every rural household. The renowned Jingjiang bamboo weaving technique is a municipal intangible cultural heritage item and skilled craftsmen there can create immensely appealing clay sculptures using clay and bamboo sticks.
A colorful and lively dance performance takes place in Jingjiang, using local bamboo weaved items as props. [Photo provided to etaizhou.gov.cn]
A bright and breezy array of Gushan clay sculptures goes on show in Jingjiang city. [Photo provided to etaizhou.gov.cn]
Known for their prowess in things ranging from delectable culinary delights to traditional crafts, the people of Jingjiang have diligently preserved and celebrated their heritage.
They've made it an integral part of their identity and in the process enriched the cultural tapestry of not just Taizhou, but also the wider region.