Henan culture showcased in Bandung, from kung fu to porcelain

Henan brought its cultural heritage to Bandung, presenting everything from kung fu and porcelain to ancient cities and the origins of Chinese writing. More than 100 Indonesian government representatives, businesses, media organizations, Chinese diaspora business associations and cultural and tourism institutions attended the conference and Heluo Culture Exhibition on September 3, 2026.

The programme used videos, live performances and cooperation agreements to introduce Henan’s tourism attractions. Organizers also presented five routes designed for Indonesian travelers: The Center of Heaven and Earth, Kung Fu in the Central Plains, Poetic Land of Henan, Craftsmanship of the Heluo Region, and A Culinary Journey to the Roots.

The Heluo exhibition explored the origins of Chinese civilization, the history of music, porcelain heritage, the mysteries of Chinese characters and the origins of Chinese surnames. Framed through local Indonesian culture, it told a story of civilization stretching from the Yellow River to the Java Sea.

West Java Deputy Governor Erwan Setiawan said Henan and Indonesia shared many cultural similarities. “We hope that more Henan cultural activities will take place in Indonesia,” he said in a statement.

From September 1 to 3, pop-up cultural events were held at locations across Jakarta and Bandung, including cultural landmarks, shopping centers and universities. Practitioners of Henan’s intangible heritage demonstrated paper cutting, incense culture, traditional treatment for bone injuries, tea ceremonies, Tang Sancai ceramics, martial arts and traditional Chinese music. They also interacted directly with Indonesian visitors, giving them the chance to experience Heluo culture first-hand.

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We hope that more Henan cultural activities will take place in Indonesia.