Shandong province has launched China's first inter-provincial train dedicated to promoting local intangible cultural heritage (ICH), with the inaugural Shandong–Xinjiang ICH train departing from Jinan on July 14.

The 18-day cultural journey will cross seven provincial-level regions before reaching the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, while offering traditional exhibitions, performances, and interactive experiences for passengers.

Elements of Jinan's cultural identity are featured throughout the carriages, from the exterior design to the interior displays. Passengers can explore exhibits featuring shadow puppetry-inspired cultural products, colorful souvenirs based on guzi yangko folk dance, and displays showcasing traditional crafts such as tin carving.

During the journey, ICH inheritors will provide live demonstrations and engage with travelers. Miao Long, a practitioner of vocal mimicry, recreates sounds ranging from birdsongs to street vendors' calls, while dough sculpture artist Luo Sui showcases the intricate techniques used to make lifelike figurines and guides passengers in creating their own works. Incense-making craftsman Lyu Xuangui also demonstrates traditional incense blending and shaping techniques.

More than just a means of transportation, the train serves as a moving platform for cultural exchange, helping Jinan's living heritage reach audiences far beyond its hometown.

Guzi yangko folk dance-inspired refrigerator magnets are showcased on the Shandong–Xinjiang ICH train. [Photo/WeChat account: visitjinan]

A Jinan dough sculptor demonstrates traditional figurine-making techniques aboard the train. [Photo/WeChat account: visitjinan]