African arts and crafts market settled in Nansong Yujie

Those who visited the Shanghai World Expo will likely remember the vibrant and unique African arts and crafts showcased at the African Union Pavilion. These colorful handicrafts, ranging from handwoven baskets to intricate carvings, captured the attention of many Chinese tourists. Impressed by their popularity, organizers are now looking to establish a permanent sales location in China. Yesterday, a new African arts and crafts shop called “He Zun” opened its doors near the Southern Song Dynasty Imperial Street in Hangzhou, offering visitors an authentic taste of African culture.

Inside “He Zun,” customers can explore a wide selection of genuine African crafts, each telling a story of tradition and craftsmanship. Alongside the products, the store also features beautiful African staff members who share insights into the cultural significance of the items on display. The shop is not just a retail space but a cultural bridge connecting Chinese consumers with the rich heritage of Africa.

Mr. Jin, the manager of He Zun, explained that the store initially focuses on handicrafts from Kenya and Tanzania, as the World Expo site was too crowded to fully showcase all African goods. “The Expo was a great platform, but we wanted to bring these treasures closer to the public in Hangzhou,” he said. “After the Expo ends, we plan to expand our collection and introduce more African countries’ art pieces.”

Looking ahead, the shop plans to increase its size from 200 to 800 square meters, allowing for more displays and a broader range of products. Like the World Expo, the store will continue to highlight the diverse artistic expressions of African nations, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in global cultures and unique handmade goods.