Artisans encouraged returning to Lijiang ancient town

The news was updated on April 22, 2019. 

As a master of leather caving in Lijiang Ancient Town, Yang Jongju has been delving into the craftsmanship for four decades. According to him, as the government takes incentive and supportive measures, more and more artisans are returning to the ancient town.

“In the past, I could never imagine that there is a big yard for artisans. Now, silversmiths, wood carvers, leather carvers, coppersmiths and others… we work in the same yard,”Yang said.

Lijiang is a world-famous tourist destination. In recent years, a series of measures have been launched by the local government to draw artisans to start new career in the ancient town of Lijiang.

These measures include repossessing public houses when contract expires, inviting artisans to restart career in the town and reducing rent of artisans. By doing so, the government aims to protect ethnic culture and maintain the charm of Lijiang.

It is expected that in the future, authorities can provide assistance for these artisans in fields of intellectual property protection, brand building so as to enhance their innovation capability and self-development.