Chef Xiao Hao, 30, wants to publicize the signature dishes of his hometown of Liling in Hunan. His team presented eight signature Liling dishes, showcasing the unique flavors of local cuisine within the broader Hunan culinary tradition.

"Although it's part of Hunan cuisine, dishes from Liling are quite different in taste and cooking methods," Xiao says.

From traditional crafts, including wood carving, paper cutting and folk dances, to martial arts from the Miao ethnic group, the festival has woven in intangible cultural heritage, enriching the culinary showcase with vibrant cultural activities.