A "May You Be Prosperous" mini horse, crafted with traditional opera embroidery techniques. [Photo/Tide News]

Traditional Chinese opera found fresh expression on Jan 10–11 as a cultural creative market wrapped up in Hangzhou, drawing crowds with inventive opera-inspired cultural products.

Held outside the Zhejiang People's Great Hall, the market showed visitors how classic craftsmanship — from embroidered opera costumes to stage props — can be reimagined for modern life.

Popular items included a "May You Be Prosperous" mini horse using panjin embroidery techniques from opera costumes, a brocade DIY kit inspired by Shaoxing Opera attire, and customized tea pastries themed around classic Yue Opera stories.

Several products sold out quickly, with vendors reporting strong interest from young consumers and potential partners.

The event also marked the launch of the nationwide "Travel in Zhejiang with Opera" cultural tourism market series, part of a broader 2026 New Year opera campaign that will bring performances and creative activities to counties across the province.

A Bbrocade mini armor DIY kit inspired by Shaoxing Opera costumes. [Photo/Tide News]