Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the cultural significance and traditional craftsmanship of osmanthus flower food production in Manjue Long Village, emphasizing the efforts of Shen Rongyan, a representative inheritor of this intangible cultural heritage, to preserve and promote this ancient skill [6][9]. Group 1: Historical Background - The osmanthus food production technique has a long history dating back to the Tang Dynasty and flourished during the Southern Song Dynasty, becoming a unique local custom in Hangzhou [6]. - Since the early Republic of China, villagers have been selling homemade osmanthus sugar around West Lake, a tradition that continues today [6]. - In 2011, the osmanthus food production technique was listed as a representative project of intangible cultural heritage in Hangzhou [6]. Group 2: Craftsmanship and Production Process - Shen Rongyan emphasizes the importance of patience and meticulousness in making osmanthus sugar, which involves several steps including picking, marinating, and drying the flowers [7][8]. - The process begins early in the morning to ensure the flowers are fresh, followed by careful selection to remove impurities [7]. - The osmanthus flowers are then marinated in a special plum brine for two months before being mixed with sugar to create the final product [8]. Group 3: Cultural Events and Community Engagement - Manjue Long Village has hosted the Osmanthus Flower Culture Festival for 39 consecutive years since 1986, showcasing traditional food-making techniques and cultural performances [8]. - The festival features various activities, including dance, tea art, and music, aimed at providing a comprehensive cultural experience for visitors [8]. - Shen Rongyan has initiated educational programs to engage the community and students, promoting awareness and appreciation of this intangible cultural heritage [9].

Core Insights - The delayed blooming of osmanthus flowers in Suzhou is attributed to high temperatures and humidity levels, which have affected the flower bud differentiation process [3][10][11] - Experts predict that the peak blooming period will occur in the coming weeks, lasting approximately 20 days, with optimal conditions expected to facilitate this [10][11] Climate Impact - Osmanthus is a "climate-sensitive" plant, requiring specific weather conditions such as temperature and humidity to trigger blooming [3] - The prolonged high temperatures from August to early October have been identified as the primary reason for the delayed flowering [3][10] - The strong subtropical high pressure has blocked cooler air from the north, contributing to the lack of effective cooling and rainfall in Suzhou [3][10] Blooming Period - Some osmanthus flowers began to bloom around September 27, but the quantity and duration were limited due to subsequent temperature increases [5][7] - Current observations indicate that mid-flowering varieties are starting to open, while late-flowering varieties are showing early signs of blooming [8][10] Cultural Significance - Osmanthus flowers are not only appreciated for their beauty but also have cultural and culinary uses, such as in traditional sweets and creative food items like osmanthus milk tea and ice cream [12][16] - The Suzhou Museum has incorporated osmanthus into its cultural offerings, enhancing visitor experience with themed products and scents [12][14]

Core Points - The "2025 Manjuelong Appreciation of Osmanthus Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience Activity" opened on October 16, showcasing diverse performances and traditional tea culture in Manjuelong Village, Zhejiang Province [3] - The event features a variety of cultural activities including dance, tea art, and traditional music, creating a multi-sensory autumn cultural feast for visitors [3] - A highlight of the event was the "Tea Cask Unveiling Ceremony," where renowned tea masters revealed the autumn's finest Osmanthus Longjing tea, symbolizing the blend of tea fragrance and Osmanthus aroma [3] Summary by Sections - **Cultural Activities**: The event includes performances such as the dance "Fragrance of Manjuelong," tea art demonstrations featuring Osmanthus Longjing and Osmanthus black tea, and traditional music performances, enhancing the cultural experience [3] - **Market Experience**: A "Manjuelong Appreciation of Osmanthus Intangible Cultural Heritage Market" was established with 120 stalls showcasing traditional food-making techniques and offering hands-on experiences like making sachets and painting lacquer fans [4] - **Event Duration and Participation**: The event will run until November 10, with opportunities for visitors to taste authentic Osmanthus Longjing or Osmanthus black tea every Saturday from 10:00 to 12:00, limited to the first 20 attendees [4]

Core Viewpoint - The upcoming "Manjuelong Appreciation of Osmanthus" cultural event, organized by the West Lake Scenic Area, aims to blend osmanthus appreciation, tea tasting, and intangible cultural heritage performances, inviting citizens to enjoy the first cup of osmanthus Longjing tea this year [1] Group 1: Event Details - The event will take place on October 16 and will feature a combination of osmanthus appreciation, tea tasting, and immersive experiences, along with multiple interactive surprises for attendees [1] - A market with 100 stalls will be set up, offering various activities such as making osmanthus soup and sugar osmanthus, creating a visually appealing environment for visitors [1] Group 2: Environmental Conditions - The optimal temperature for osmanthus growth is between 15°C and 28°C, with a required humidity level above 75% during the flower bud differentiation period [1] - Recent weather forecasts indicate that osmanthus flowers will bloom again around October 16 [1] Group 3: Additional Activities - From October 18 to November 10, every Saturday morning, 20 "osmanthus guests" will be invited to the Manjuelong Village to taste osmanthus Longjing or osmanthus black tea for free and explore the non-material cultural heritage market [1]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the unique production process and flavor profile of traditional Suzhou osmanthus products, particularly focusing on the "sugar osmanthus" and "plum sauce osmanthus" from the Gaoyang Village in Suzhou, highlighting the blend of sweet and salty flavors that characterize these products [1][2]. Group 1: Production Process - The primary ingredient for "sugar osmanthus" is actually "salty osmanthus," which is made by pickling fresh osmanthus flowers with coarse salt and a bit of plum sauce [2]. - The production of "sugar osmanthus" involves adding a secret recipe and white sugar to the base of "salty osmanthus," followed by a series of processes including stirring, settling, and resting [2]. - The unique flavor of "sugar osmanthus" is a balance of sweetness and a hint of saltiness, which is considered the essence of traditional sugar osmanthus [2]. Group 2: Unique Products - The "plum sauce osmanthus" is another distinctive product from Gaoyang Village, made by alternating layers of salty osmanthus and plum sauce, which undergoes fermentation [3]. - This method not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the osmanthus from oxidizing and losing its texture [3]. - The combination of plum and osmanthus creates a complex flavor profile that is unique to the Suzhou region [3]. Group 3: Market and Consumer Preferences - The products have gained popularity, with a 220-gram jar of sugar osmanthus priced at 10 yuan, attracting many local consumers and tourists [4]. - Traditional uses of sugar osmanthus include pairing it with desserts like sweet dumplings and rice wine, while modern adaptations include its incorporation into beverages like osmanthus lattes and Americanos [4]. - The article notes the regional variations in osmanthus products across China, reflecting local tastes and preferences [4].