Two Major Cultural IPs Join Forces for the First Time as 2026 Gansu Qingyang Qihuang Cultural Forum Opens in Qingcheng

On September 19, the 2026 Gansu Qingyang Qihuang Cultural Forum opened in Qingcheng County. Themed "Qihuang Transmits the Medical Way, Nanzuo Bears Witness to Civilization," this year's forum marks the first time two major cultural IPs—the Qihuang Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) culture and the prehistoric Nanzuo Civilization—have been integrated and presented together. Nearly 500 experts, scholars and professionals in related fields from across China gathered to explore new ways to preserve and advance traditional medicine in the modern era while carrying forward the cultural legacy of the Nanzuo archaeological site.

On-site at the event 

Photo by Zhang Ying

That morning, a ceremony honoring Qibo, revered as the founding father of traditional Chinese medicine, was held in Qibo Square at the Zhouzuling Scenic Area in Qingcheng County. The ceremony proceeded with the beating of drums and ringing of bells, the recitation of a commemorative ode, the presentation of flower baskets, and the offering of Gansu's medicinal herbs. Participants then recited selected passages from the Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon) and bowed in unison, paying tribute to Qibo through traditional rituals.

Collective Recitation of Huangdi Neijing 

Photo by Zhang Ying

That afternoon, three parallel sub-forums were held, focusing on appropriate TCM therapies and life-course health management, the role of artificial intelligence in advancing the high-quality development of TCM, and the Nanzuo Site's significance in tracing the origins of Chinese civilization. Scholars exchanged insights on topics including the preservation and innovation of traditional Chinese medicine and research into the origins of Chinese civilization.

Guests listening to the presentations 

Photo by Zhang Ying

By bringing together "the roots of medicine" and "the origins of civilization" on a single platform, the forum not only highlights Qingyang's unique role in preserving the heritage of traditional Chinese medicine but also provides an important platform for exchange and cooperation. It aims to foster deeper integration of TCM with the health and wellness industries while promoting the creative transformation and innovative development of China's rich traditional culture. (Text by Liu Huadong)