Meicun keeps China's erhu tradition in tune with the world

A traditional Chinese music concert is held every year in Meicun, Xinwu district, Wuxi. [Photo/WeChat account: meicunrizhi]

Long celebrated as the "Home of the Chinese Erhu", Meicun in Wuxi National Hi-Tech District has transformed centuries-old craftsmanship into a thriving cultural industry.

The subdistrict is home to more than 20 makers and businesses of this two-stringed bowed instrument dubbed the “Chinese violin”, and over a dozen established brands.

Together, they produce nearly 50,000 erhu each year, accounting for around a quarter of China's mid-to-high-end market.

With an annual output value of about 100 million yuan ($14 million), Meicun has built a complete industrial ecosystem encompassing instrument production, exhibition, sales, training and live performance.

Meicun Erhu Culture Park. [Photo/WeChat account: meicunrizhi]

At the heart of this ecosystem is the Erhu Culture Park, China's first comprehensive museum dedicated to the iconic instrument. The venue combines historical exhibitions, live demonstrations of traditional craftsmanship, master workshops and a professional concert hall.

Complementing the museum is the Erhu Industrial Park, a 900-square-meter hub that brings together hands-on craft experiences, merchandise retail, education and livestreaming operations, helping traditional craftsmanship connect with new audiences and business models.

Making an erhu requires 108 steps by hand. [Photo/WeChat account: meicunrizhi]

Behind every authentic Meicun erhu lies a painstaking process of 108 handcrafted steps. From selecting premium wood and python skin to fine carving, assembly and tuning, generations of local artisans have preserved these time-honored techniques while pursuing exceptional craftsmanship in every instrument.

The quality of Meicun-made erhus has earned recognition far beyond the company's hometown. The instruments have been featured on the stage of the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing and showcased at major industry events, including international musical instrument exhibitions in Beijing and Shanghai.

Through cultural exchange programs, Meicun-made erhu have also reached audiences around the world, appearing at Silicon Valley Fashion Week in the United States, cultural exhibitions in France, and performances and exhibitions in Germany, the United Kingdom, New Zealand and other countries.