Woodblock prints have a long history in China and are closely related to everyday life, reflecting the aspirations and folk customs of the people. The woodblock prints for Spring Festival celebration, called nianhua in Chinese, often become cultural symbols of a region.

Suzhou's Taohuawu woodblock prints, which is named after the Taohuawu Avenue of the city, became one of the first to be designated as China's national intangible cultural heritage on May 20, 2016. In terms of subjects, Taohuawu prints often feature small bridges, flowing water, white walls and black tiles (a sign of China Jiangnan architectural style), customs and classical gardens of the city. These prints, full of Jiangnan charm, are simple, rustic and beautiful.

A depiction of Huqiu (Tiger Hill), painted by Yang Yunqing and carved by Ye Baofen, 1960s

A depiction of bountiful harvest, painted by Yang Yunqing and carved by Ye Jinshen, 1960s

A depiction of delivering good news, painted by Wang Zude, 1970s

A depiction of "Nezha Stirs Up the Sea" (a beloved Chinese mythology), painted by Wang Zude and carved by Ye Jinsheng, 1970s

A depiction of water town, painted by Wang Zude, 1980s

A depiction of autumn scene, painted by Wang Zude and carved by Lu Ping, 1980s

A depiction of a woman in water town, painted by Duan Wenhai and carved by Wu Jingping, 1990s

A depiction of a woman in water village, painted and carved by Wu Zhen, 21st century

A depiction of dragons (considered to be auspicious and lucky), painted by Qian Jinhua and carved by Shen Ting, 21st century

A depiction of the Year of the Rabbit, painted by Qian Jinhua and carved by Wang Jingyu. (Photo credit: Federation of Literary and Art Circles of Jiangsu Province)