At a community canteen in the Qingdao West Coast New Area, staff are busy steaming batches of Jiaodong huabobo — large, intricately flower-shaped steamed buns that hold cherished status as an intangible cultural heritage delicacy and a beloved taste of Chinese New Year.

Xucun Canteen, which serves local seniors, has ramped up during the busy festive season. Each steaming bun carries not only the flavor of tradition but also the warmth of the rural community spirit.

Through this annual effort, intangible cultural heritage is kept alive in the fragrant, bustling kitchens of a village. Here, the aroma of freshly steamed buns mingles with laughter and good cheer, painting a heartwarming picture of cultural continuity and a thriving countryside ready to welcome a prosperous new year.

Staff steam Jiaodong flower-shaped steamed buns at a Qingdao village canteen for the Year of the Horse. [Photo/IC]

Intricate buns carry intangible cultural heritage and festive hometown warmth. [Photo/IC]

Through this annual effort, intangible cultural heritage is kept alive. [Photo/IC]