Bark paintings are displayed at a workshop in Bailang town, Arxan city, north China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region, Aug. 7, 2025. [Photo by Chen Xinyan/China.org.cn]

The bark painting tradition in Bailang, a town in Arxan city, north China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region, is an intangible cultural heritage that reflects both artistic value and local ingenuity in blending nature with craft.

Bailang, located in the primitive forest area of the Greater Khingan Mountains, is rich in birch trees. Unfortunately, high winds often fell trees, and the steep mountains and dense woods make clearing them difficult. This fallen timber can raise the risk of wildfires and hinder the growth of new grass.

Tourists make bark paintings under the guidance of an instructor at a bark painting workshop in Bailang town, Arxan city, north China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region, Aug. 7, 2025. [Photo by Chen Xinyan/China.org.cn]

Instead of letting this natural resource go to waste, local artisans collect birch bark from discarded timber, including those that have fallen, been damaged by fire, or are decaying. The bark often retains its vivid colors and layered textures long after the wood has rotted away, making it a distinctive material for handicrafts.

"The forest provides us with culture and wealth, echoing the idea that lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets," said Yang Meng, a bark painting inheritor.

A bark painting workshop in Bailang town, Arxan city, north China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region, Aug. 7, 2025. [Photo by Chen Xinyan/China.org.cn]

The craft has spurred a small but steady industry in Bailang, creating jobs and raising incomes for local residents, especially for underrepresented groups.

"We have created jobs for more than 200 people," said a representative of a local workshop. "We run regular training for women, including those with disabilities and stay-at-home mothers. After they complete their artworks, we buy them back."

A bark painting workshop in Bailang town, Arxan city, north China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region, Aug. 7, 2025. [Photo by Chen Xinyan/China.org.cn]

Bark paintings have become a hallmark of the town, attracting tourists who are eager to participate in workshops and experience the tradition firsthand. The influx has helped promote and preserve this unique intangible cultural heritage for future generations.