At the foot of Hangzhou’s iconic West Lake, history met hustle and heart this weekend as the Song-themed market took over Yongjin Plaza, drawing crowds of locals and tourists alike.

Wandering through the throngs were costumed NPCs in flowing Song-era robes, rattling traditional peddler drums and carrying baskets of local wares. More than just living scenery, they quietly wove together threads of cultural charm and community care.

Stalls overflowed with delights: the 2026 West Lake Calendar, whimsical “Xizi Cat” merchandise, authentic dishes from the legendary Louwailou restaurant, delicate teas from Hubinju, rich “Drunken West Lake” liquor, and sweet osmanthus syrup that had visitors stopping in their tracks. At one intangible heritage booth, a sugar-painting artisan used golden syrup - made by the old way from Lin’an sugarcane - to sketch miniature masterpieces of Three Pools Mirroring the Moon and Su Causeway. Nearby, a painter in Southern Song attire captured visitors’ likenesses with swift, graceful strokes. “It’s uncanny. she got me exactly!” marveled one onlooker. After each portrait, the artist slipped her subject a little card: “Thank you for your trust. All proceeds go to the West Lake Charity Fund - let’s spread kindness together.” Also on-site: friendly teams from “Hong Xiao Xi” (party-community services), “Pao Xiao Xi” (government affairs support), and “Shan Xiao Xi” (charity outreach) - making sure help was never more than a smile away.

More than just a stroll through history, the market breathed new life into Song-era traditions - from tea ceremonies to crafts - while turning “shared prosperity” into something warm, tangible, and deeply human. “I came with my daughter - we soaked up culture, enjoyed great service, and even contributed to a good cause,” said Ms. Chen, beaming. “What more could you ask for?”