Full coverage: 67th Chinese National Day

While most of China took this holiday to do some shopping and scenic spotting, some have made their week quite fulfilling by learning traditional cultures and techniques.

At a Confucian temple in Suzhou city, an ancient school opening ceremony is held for more than 40 pupils in Han costumes. The traditional rituals may be quite complicated, but the principles, thoughts and regulations behind the ancient Chinese sages are still as precious as ever.

“I feel like I’m in ancient times. And I feel peaceful seeing the scenery,” said a tourist.

Traditional Chinese cultural lessons have not just gained popularity amongst the locals in recent years. Overseas students are also interested in the ancient philosopher.

“I learned a lot about Confucius. His thoughts have always been useful, both in the past and at present. They are so important to our life that they are never abandoned,” said an overseas student at the Confucius Institute, Suzhou University.

Meanwhile over in Luoyang, the capital of Henan province, an exhibition of local intangible cultural heritages is held. And Tangsancai ceramics have drawn the most attention.

Sancai is a type of decoration on Chinese ceramics and pottery, mainly using the three colors of brown, green, and a creamy off-white. It dates back to the Tang Dynasty, and continued to be produced over later periods.

A number of pieces were found Luoyang. And this centuries-old Tangsancai technique is now on China’s list of intangible cultural heritage.

“We should be more innovative in preserving and inheriting traditional skills. And the works should be more customer-oriented,” said Gao Shuiwang, inheritor of sancai glazed pottery.

Also on display at the exhibition are different local art forms and cuisines.