Suhewan MixC World shopping mall in Shanghai is offering a great experience this Chinese New Year by celebrating with a raft of traditional Chinese intangible cultural heritage events.

The mall is hosting a special happening, featuring five cultural elements that showcase the rich traditions of China: Chinese knots, fish lanterns, mahjong, kites and a lion dance. The grand event offers visitors a chance to experience and appreciate the beauty and symbolism of these ancient crafts.

Chinese knots

The intricate art of Chinese knotting dates back to ancient times when it was used as a means of communications and record-keeping. Today, they're symbols of good luck, happiness and prosperity, often seen during festivals like the Chinese New Year. Visitors can explore this timeless tradition, which expresses deep blessings and heartfelt wishes through colorful cords.

Fish lanterns

Fish lanterns are a well-loved part of Chinese culture and are especially popular during the Lantern Festival. These lanterns, made from bamboo and shaped like fish, symbolize abundance and good fortune. The word "fish" (鱼, yú) sounds like "surplus" (余, yú), representing a wish for prosperity and a life filled with abundance and joy.

Kites

Chinese kites, a craft with centuries of history, are featured prominently in the event. Traditionally used for various purposes — including entertainment and military signaling — kites now symbolize freedom, joy and the pursuit of a good life. Flying kites is believed to be able to drive away evil spirits. They're not only regarded as an art form, but are also a playful way to connect with nature and celebrate the season.

Mahjong

Known as a national treasure, mahjong is a traditional Chinese game that has been popular since the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). It's played with a set of tiles marked with Chinese characters and symbols — offering a mix of skill, strategy and chance. Mahjong has become a staple of Chinese New Year celebrations, where families and friends gather to play and strengthen bonds.

Lion dance

The lion dance is an ancient performance believed to bring good fortune, drive away evil spirits and ensure prosperity. Performed during Chinese New Year and other cultural festivals, the dance features dancers mimicking a lion's movements in a colorful costume — bringing a lively and joyous atmosphere wherever it's performed.

Event schedule

1. Suhewan Neighborhood Mahjong Tournament

When: 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm, Jan 25 to Feb 4

Where: LG2 indoor atrium, West area of the mall

2. The Spring Breeze Slash Parade by the local Cie Wulong troupe

When: 2 pm to 2:30 pm, 4 pm to 4:30 pm, 5:30 pm to 6 pm, Jan 29-31

Where: Shenyu Lane, LG2 commercial area

3. Lion Dance Performance

When: 10:08 am to 12 pm, Feb 2

Where: Entrance of Italian restaurant Grande A'moo, L1, East area of the mall

4. 2025 Lantern Festival at Beizhan subdistrict

When: 4 pm to 6:30 pm, Feb 12

Where: LG2 outdoor atrium, East area of the mall

Sources: Jing'an district administration of culture and tourism, Shanghai Suhewan MixC World