The 2026 ‘Xinjiang, A Land of Wonders’ themed exhibition, dedicated to supporting Xinjiang through intangible cultural heritage, opened on July 30 in Shihezi City, Xinjiang. Running through August 3, this year’s event is the largest edition to date, featuring an innovative exhibition hall centered on ‘integration and co-creation.’ The theme vividly embodies the idea of beauty in diversity and harmony through mutual appreciation, according to the organizers.
At the main venue, the Shihezi Convention and Exhibition Center, six sections have been set up: ‘Intangible Heritage: Music and Dance,’ ‘Intangible Heritage: A Feast of Local Flavors,’ ‘Intangible Heritage: Technology and Innovation,’ ‘Intangible Heritage: Learning and Transmission,’ ‘Intangible Heritage: Cultural and Creative Market,’ and an interactive exhibition and performances themed ‘Intangible Heritage in Poetry.’ Together, these sections offer a diverse range of experiences, including Chaoshan Yingge dance, Xinjiang Muqam, heritage food tastings, XR digital experiences, and interactive educational activities.
The event brings together more than 650 representative intangible cultural heritage items and is expected to receive 200,000 visits. At the sub-venue, the Bayi Sugar Factory Cultural and Creative District, seven intangible cultural heritage items, including Nanjing Yunjin brocade and Hainan Li brocade, will be featured on a permanent basis. This move helps shift intangible cultural heritage presentation beyond short-term exhibitions toward sustained transmission, ensuring these traditions remain active in the community.
Using intangible cultural heritage as a bridge, the exhibition promotes interaction, exchange, and integration among all ethnic groups. By encouraging practitioners to learn from one another and collaborate, it injects new vitality into the safeguarding and transmission of these cultural treasures. The event underscores the importance of cultural preservation in fostering social cohesion and mutual understanding, a key aspect of Xinjiang’s development strategy.
The exhibition’s scale and permanent installations reflect a growing commitment to cultural heritage in the region. The integration of traditional arts with modern technology, such as XR digital experiences, highlights how innovation can enhance the appreciation of ancient practices. The inclusion of culinary traditions and creative markets also connects heritage with contemporary life, making it accessible to younger generations.
This year’s event is particularly significant as it emphasizes ‘integration and co-creation,’ signaling a shift from passive display to active participation. The permanent exhibition at the Bayi Sugar Factory Cultural and Creative District ensures that these cultural expressions remain a living part of the community, not just a temporary attraction. This approach aligns with broader efforts to preserve intangible cultural heritage in China, which has been a priority in recent years.
The opening of the exhibition in Shihezi, a city known for its industrial history, also highlights the role of cultural heritage in urban revitalization. By repurposing the Bayi Sugar Factory, the event demonstrates how historical sites can be transformed into vibrant cultural hubs, contributing to local economic and social development.
As the exhibition continues through August 3, it offers a unique opportunity for visitors to engage with the diverse cultural tapestry of Xinjiang and beyond. The organizers expect the event to not only entertain but also educate, fostering a deeper appreciation for the intangible heritage that defines the region’s identity.
