On Oct 28, 2020, four Zigong lanterns that each measured 2.3 meters in height and over 400 kilograms in weight, were placed at the CIIE venue and I finally felt a sense of relief. Being the largest of their kind, the lanterns became part of the permanent collection of the CIIE organizers.

The expo has significantly increased the popularity of Zigong lanterns. In 2022, about 100 exhibitions of the lanterns have been held at home and more than 40 have been held overseas.

This year, Zigong will attend the fifth CIIE for the third consecutive year with more than 20 lanterns to create an artistic atmosphere at night in the venue. I am looking forward to further promoting China's intangible cultural heritage through the expo.

The author is the director of the Zigong Lantern Industry Association and the former president of Zigong Lantern Culture Communication and Operation Co.