As the Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year) of 2024 approaches, Guangzhou's Liwan District introduced a new cultural icon, "Huishi Cat," to celebrate this auspicious occasion. Unveiled in September 2023, Huishi Cat embodies the rich culinary heritage of the region, serving as a charming ambassador of taste and tradition.

In the Cantonese language, people often playfully refer to those who are fond of eating and have a love for food as "Wei Shi Mao 為食貓," conveying a sense of endearment and indulgence in the local Cantonese culture towards the quest for flavors and culinary delights. Therefore, with Cantonese being one of the epitomes of Guangzhou culture, combined with the image of a cute cat, it forms the core design elements of the adorable ambassador of Xiguan cuisine, "Huishi Cat." The big shrimp dumpling it holds represents the classic Cantonese dim sum, enough to evoke the taste memories of generations of locals and food enthusiasts.

Huishi Cat has joined a family of six mascots, each symbolizing different aspects of Guangzhou's diverse culture. Huishi Cat is a testament to the district's commitment to preserving and promoting its unique identity. These mascots, representing themes such as prosperity, traditional music, and Cantonese opera, will be featured in the upcoming Liwan Spring Festival Flower Market, offering an immersive experience of the local culture.

Wealthy Cat: Dressed in a red robe with a dragon crown on its head, holding a large golden ingot and a lucky bag, symbolizing both wealth and a prosperous life.

Lion Dance Cat:Embracing the rich Lion Dance culture of Guangdong, this cat is adorned with lion dance props and holds a banner that says "Good Luck Comes," a crucial character in festive celebrations.

Scholar Cat: Wearing a feathered headpiece, an official's robe, holding a finely carved ivory ball in one hand and a calligraphy brush in the other, symbolizing academic success.

Cantonese Opera Cat: Dressed in traditional opera attire and adopting the appearance of Mu Guiying, a famous opera character and a legendary heroine from the Northern Song Dynasty, this cat reflects the close connection between Cantonese opera and the Cantonese language, spreading the rich culture of Guangzhou through its charm.

Blessing Cat: Adorned with a marshal's helmet, a command flag, cloud boots, and riding a mystical dragon beneath its feet, this cat exudes an air of majesty. The dragon symbolizes the ability to create clouds and rain, ward off disasters, and bring blessings, signifying auspiciousness.

Folk Music Cat: Wearing simple clothing, playing the flute alone, calmly enjoying music, reflecting the traditional virtues of the gentle, respectful, thrifty, and generous Guangdong people.

The Liwan Spring Festival Flower Market, a centerpiece of the Chinese New Year celebrations in Liwan District, will be adorned with various themed merchandise such as colorful windmills, red envelopes, and exclusive keychains. Visitors will be treated to a vibrant tapestry of traditional foods, mesmerizing performances, and an array of cultural items that capture the spirit of Lingnan culture.

Huishi Cat windmill

Huishi Cat red envelopes

Huishi Cat keychain