Manzhao Village and Paper Making in Menghai County, XishuangBanna

Chinese Name:西双版纳勐海县勐混镇曼召村和傣族造纸

Manzhao Village, situated east of Menghun Town in Menghai County, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, is a historic Dai ethnic village. The village’s name translates to "Sprouting Village" in Dai. It is renowned for its traditional Dai papermaking technique, which has been preserved for over 800 years. This artisanal craft has made Manzhao Village famous for its Dai paper, which is shipped worldwide.

Dai Papermaking Tradition

Dai papermaking, known as “Gala” in the Dai language, boasts a rich history and was recognized in 2006 as part of the first batch of national and Yunnan provincial intangible cultural heritage. The papermaking process involves five main steps: soaking, steaming, pounding, casting, and drying. The tools used are predominantly bamboo and wooden implements, with the exception of one iron pot. The traditional methods ensure that Dai paper retains its natural and primitive characteristics.

Characteristics and Uses

Dai paper is valued for its high breathability, flexibility, and durability, allowing it to be preserved for up to a hundred years without decay. It was traditionally used for religious, cultural, and economic activities in the surrounding regions. The rise of Pu'er tea’s popularity further boosted the use of Dai paper, which is prized for its thickness, resistance to folding, and moisture absorption properties, making it ideal for wrapping high-quality Pu'er tea cakes. Manzhao Village produces over ten million sheets of Dai paper annually, generating an output value exceeding 9 million yuan. The paper is distributed across China and to countries such as Japan and South Korea.

Current Status and Challenges

As technology advanced, many villages ceased Dai papermaking. Manzhao Village remains the only producer in Xishuangbanna. The village has leveraged Dai paper to create distinctive local features and boost income through this 800-year-old craft. Dai paper is visible throughout the village, in the form of handmade products like umbrellas and handbags, which have become popular among tourists. The village has also embraced a "heritage + tourism" model, offering Dai paper experience projects to attract visitors and showcase the craft.

Cultural Significance

Dai paper has a deep connection with the Dai people and their culture. It originated in Manzhao Village, where the craft is one of the most ancient forms of papermaking still in practice. Dai paper was historically used to transcribe Buddhist scriptures, ensuring its preservation and integration into Dai culture.

Yan Kan, a provincial inheritor of Dai paper and the village party branch secretary, notes that the craft has been passed down for over 800 years. Despite a significant decline in demand due to the advent of machine-made paper, the need for Dai paper in Buddhist practices helped sustain its use. In recent years, the demand for Dai paper has risen again with its application in Pu'er tea packaging. However, as modern technology further reduces the need for traditional paper, the craft faces ongoing challenges.

Revival and Preservation

To address the decline in demand, some villagers have resumed papermaking to supplement their income. Yan Kan’s Dai paper cooperative, located at the village entrance, showcases the paper in various forms like lanterns, fans, notebooks, and paper umbrellas. The cooperative collects Dai paper from villagers, processes it into cultural products, and markets it based on demand. The cooperative’s efforts help maintain traditional techniques and provide an additional income stream for the community. Each household can earn an extra 40,000 to 50,000 yuan annually from papermaking.

Manzhao Village’s commitment to preserving Dai papermaking reflects respect for nature and cultural heritage. The papermaking process, which involves traditional tools and methods, highlights the craftsmanship and dedication involved in maintaining this ancient craft.