Li Ziqi's favorite apron and the art of Nantong's blue calico

Beloved content creator Li Ziqi is back, and in her most recent interview, she revealed her visits to Nantong where she learned the national-level intangible cultural heritage of blue calico making from Master Wang Zhenxing.

The aprons she wears in her videos? Handcrafted by none other than Master Wang himself.

For Nantong, blue calico is as iconic as Yunjin brocade is to Nanjing or Su Embroidery is to Suzhou. Dubbed the "hometown of blue calico", the city has preserved its centuries-old dyeing techniques. In 2006, Nantong blue calico printing and dyeing craft was officially included in the first batch of China's national intangible cultural heritage.

The vibrant blue comes from an indigo plant polygonum tinctorium. Its root, called banlangen in Mandarin, is also a common ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine. Once harvested, the plant is fermented into a blackish mud-like dye. This natural indigo, used by generations, is free of chemicals and has anti-inflammatory benefits for the skin.

Now 84, Master Wang remains active at his workshop, handcrafting pieces with timeless patterns and auspicious motifs. "We've seen a huge increase in orders," he says, while noting the growing appreciation for traditional Chinese culture.

Thanks to the dedication of artisans who continue to pass the craft down to younger generations, blue calico has found itself in the spotlight of modern fashion in recent years. Its mix of tradition and trendiness is capturing hearts across China and beyond.

Where to find blue calico in Nantong:

1. Wang Zhenxing's Workshop

Jiefang Street, Erjia Town, Tongzhou District, Nantong

Admission: Free

What to Expect: Witness the full dyeing process—from indigo fermentation to pattern carving, dyeing, and drying. You'll get an up-close look at this captivating craft in action.

2. Nantong Blue Calico Museum

81 Haodong Road, Chongchuan District, Nantong

Admission: Free

What to Expect: Established by Wu Yuanxin, respected Master of Chinese Arts and Crafts, this museum is the first in China dedicated to blue calico. Beside learning about its history and techniques, visitors can create their own blue calico handkerchiefs.

3. Qidong Blue Calico Art Museum

No. 600 Huangpujiang Road, Qidong, Nantong

Admission: Free

What to Expect: This art museum showcases over 300 exhibits, tracing the history and evolution of blue calico while celebrating its craftsmanship.

Source and photos: Official WeChat account of Jiangsu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism