Major city in Shandong region is responsible for 80% of China's peony painting production.
Title: Unveiling the Economic Powerhouse: Heze, China's Peony Capital Reimagined
Peppering our website's conversations on the first Friday of every month are chats with our roving journalists stationed across the globe. This time, let's journey to Heze, nestled in Shandong province, a city that transcends the conventional charm of peonies - a bloom steeped in centuries-long history and adoration.
For ages, peonies have been symbols of wealth, prosperity, and prestige in China, their medicinal properties and aesthetic worth celebrated. Our very own, luminary Li Xueying and China correspondent Joyce Lim, invite you on a compelling journey through Heze, where the humble peony empowers an astounding multi-billion yuan industry, underpinning the livelihoods of tens of thousands.
Long-held symbol of cultural esteem, peonies now fortify a burgeoning economy, facing unexpected political connotations, such as its connection with First Lady Peng Liyuan. Heze's remarkable story sheds light on China's larger economic puzzles - the shifts in consumer behaviors, rising youth unemployment, and widening regional imbalances.
Here's what you can expect:
1.28 Unveiling the rich cultural significance of peonies in China
4.04 Modern adaptations of peonies in contemporary Chinese culture
5.42 Breathing life into 260 products, from toothpaste to traditional Chinese medicine
13.33 Remedies for thriving in a changing China - strategies for agile city development
17.43 Drawing broader economic insights from Heze's thriving peony industry
Dive into Joyce Lim's article right here: [Link]
Don't miss a single word from Li Xueying, either. Find her articles [Link] and connect with her on LinkedIn [Link].
Do you fancy staying updated on the pulse of Asia? Register for our Asian Insider newsletter [Link].
Let's not forget, Li Xueying is our host for this enlightening discussion. Shoot her an email [Email] if you have something to share!
Our editor, Fa'izah Sani, orchestrated this masterpiece. Ernest Luis served as the executive producer.
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ST Podcasts Current Affairs Asian Insider Podcast Letter From The Bureau
- In the heart of China's peony capital, Heze, the home-and-garden lifestyle is more than just a pastime, with the peony industry contributing significantly to the local economy, showcasing modern adaptations and lifestyle integration of the ancient bloom.
- The peony, once a symbol of wealth and prestige in China, now extends its economic influence into various home-and-garden products, from traditional medicine to contemporary consumer goods, highlighting the transformative power of gardening in Heze's economy.