Beijing's Hongqiao Pearl Market reinvents itself

In addition to pearls, Hongqiao is building a cultural heritage incubation center that will feature masters of traditional crafts such as embroidery, cloisonne and carved lacquer.

Liu Dong, an intangible cultural heritage inheritor, offers unique glass decorated using a traditional neihua (interior painting) technique, which involves painting intricate designs inside a bottle.

"This product was designed for the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics and became a licensed product, available to athletes worldwide," he said.

Visitors can experience this art firsthand in Liu's workshop on the market's third floor, even trying it themselves with special kits for at-home use.

"We have been innovating new products in hope of attracting more people to the market to learn about neihua," Liu said.

Over the years, the market has hosted more than 1,500 foreign dignitaries and teams. During the recent China-Africa Cooperation Forum, the market welcomed 150 foreign guests from 16 countries.

As a vital cultural gateway, Hongqiao Market is committed to blending culture, commerce and tourism to serve both Chinese and international visitors, Jin said.

Liu Boqian contributed to this story.