Corresponding to the 2026 China Tourism Day theme, “Enjoy Quality Travel, Explore Scenic Land”, the interactive workshop Discover Zisha – Where Nature Meets Design was held in Copenhagen on May 19.  Centered on traditional Yixing zisha teaware, the event combined presentations, craft demonstrations, and hands-on experiences, inviting Danish participants to engage in a cross-cultural dialogue on aesthetics through both observation and personal interaction.

The program was introduced through the lens of Nordic design language, drawing a comparison between Yixing zisha teapots and the iconic Y-stol chair by Danish modernist designer Hans Wegner. This approach helped the audience better understand the aesthetic expression of zisha craftsmanship in a contemporary context, as well as the shared principles between China and Denmark in terms of nature, functionality, and sustainable design.

At the venue, raw Yixing zisha clay and finished pieces were presented side by side. Participants were invited to touch the unfired clay, experiencing its fine, supple texture and the subtle variations in temperature that reflect its natural state.

Zisha artisans demonstrated the full process of traditional handcrafting and ceramic carving on site. From joining clay slabs, forming the body of the teapot, to the movement of carving tools, the complete creation process of a teapot was presented before the audience.

The master craftsmen also created ink paintings on paper fans, depicting themes of China–Denmark friendship through expressive brushwork, which received enthusiastic responses from the audience.

A dedicated interactive session was arranged as part of the program, where several participants personally engaged in the process of making zisha teapots. Under the guidance of artisans, they experienced the intricate details and tactile qualities of traditional handcraft techniques.

The tea pets displayed on site changed color when hot water was poured over them, which surprised many visitors and sparked strong interest. A large number of attendees stopped to watch and took photos to capture the moment.

In addition, a Chinese-style tea setting photo area was specially arranged at the Center, featuring interactive props such as folding fans. It attracted many participants who took turns posing for photos, creating a relaxed and lively atmosphere on site.

Many visitors noted that this complete “from raw ore to finished vessel” presentation reshaped their understanding of craftsmanship, revealing the temporal depth and emotional resonance embedded in handmade objects. It also offered a more tangible perception of the principle of harmony between humanity and nature in traditional Chinese craftsmanship.

Framed within the 2026 China Tourism Day theme, the event moved traditional craftsmanship beyond static exhibition through interactive participation and live demonstrations. It enabled the audience to gain a clearer understanding of the production processes and aesthetic principles behind zisha ware through hands-on engagement and close observation. In doing so, it also highlighted the cultural philosophy of “embedding aesthetics in everyday life,” while offering a more immersive and accessible platform for the presentation and international exchange of China’s intangible cultural heritage in a cross-cultural context.