Russian sailors record a traditional performance in Daishan. [Photo/Tide News]

Traditional Chinese heritage and island culture captivated a group of international sailors during a Cultural and Natural Heritage Day event in Daishan county on June 12.

Five Russian sailors were invited to join local residents at Penglai Park, where they experienced traditional performances, folk arts and local cuisine. The powerful rhythms of Zhoushan gongs and drums, fisherfolk songs and dragon dances quickly became highlights of the event, with sailors eagerly recording the performances on their phones.

The visitors also explored exhibitions of local intangible cultural heritage, including fishermen's paintings, mother-of-pearl handicrafts, lacquerware and traditional island crafts. In the interactive zone, they tried their hand at Chinese knot-making, paper-cutting and shell inlay techniques, impressing locals with how quickly they mastered the skills.

"It was fascinating to see and experience so many things," said a Russian sailor, who proudly showed off a Chinese knot she had made during the event.

Organizers said the activity is part of the "100,000 International Sailors in Zhoushan" initiative, which aims to promote cultural exchange through heritage experiences and traditional festivals.