A millennium-old fashion tradition revitalizes Yongren in Yunnan

From Feb 27 to March 3, the Yongren Saizhuang Cultural Promotion Week lit up Yongren county, Yunnan province. Thirteen vibrant events blended tradition, digital media and tourism — breathing new life into Yi embroidery culture and fueling rural revitalization.

Saizhuang (costume contest) culture originated in ancient times in Zhiju village of the town, evolving from the Yi people’s transition from hunting life to settled agriculture. Known as the “root of Yi embroidery”, it combines ritual farming customs, costume competitions, singing and dancing, and youth social traditions, showcasing the wisdom, aesthetics and heritage of the Yi people.