Masks used in Guizhou's Dixi opera are finding fans far beyond China

Masks of Dixi opera, used in a ritual dance with military origins. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Whether featuring a black face with a long beard and bulging eyes, or a sword-like brow with pale, heroic features, the wooden masks used in Guizhou's Dixi opera are finding fans far beyond China.

In Anshun city, 53-year-old Qin Fazhong inherited his grandfather's carving knife and uses it to make these mysterious, imposing masks. He founded a carving cultural museum with an experiential workshop and began selling wooden sculptures overseas through social media.

"I opened accounts on Douyin, Kuaishou, and other social platforms to livestream my carving," Qin said. His livestream carving sessions on short-video platforms often attract more than 100,000 viewers per session.

Visitors experience making masks of Dixi opera. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Local media reports that his works reach markets across China and abroad, with annual export revenue averaging over 2 million yuan ($278,622).

Dixi opera is a ritual dance with military origins. Performers hold the masks above their heads to portray loyal, patriotic military heroes from Chinese history.

Qin's museum was also involved in study and family tour packages. Visitors from home and abroad learn carving techniques and watch Dixi performances during the day, stay overnight in guesthouses in the old military-garrison town, and often leave with several of the masks.

Since opening nine years ago, Qin's museum has welcomed more than 500,000 visitors, with attendance surpassing 72,000 in 2024 alone.

Visitors experience making masks of Dixi opera. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Visitors experience making masks of Dixi opera. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]