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Zhuang Brocade, created by the dexterous Zhuang ethnic group in Guangxi, is one of the famous traditional Chinese folk-custom crafts. This splendid handicraft is woven in beautiful designs with natural cotton warp and dyed weft, and is believed to have originated in the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD).

During the Song Period, the weaving techniques of Zhuang brocade had been greatly improved. The Zhuang weavers began to use five-color gloss to make the brocade and embroider flowers and birds onto them. Zhuang brocade reached its peak in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD) when it was presented to the imperial court as tributes. In the domain of textiles, Zhuang brocade stands out for its durability, exquisite designs and intricate patterns.

Common Zhuang brocade patterns which we often see include: squares, waves, clouds and circles. There are also some intricate patterns such as phoenixes among peonies, lions playing with balls, butterflies courting flowers and carps jumping over dragon doors. The brocade, with delicate designs and bright colors, has a great practical value. It is excellent for making carpets, tablecloths, scarves, aprons and handbags.

There are plenty of places to buy Zhuang brocade in Guangxi. These wonderful handicrafts are sold in the shops in tourist attractions, night markets and Yangshuo West Street. Scarves and handbags are the most common products sold in the market and the price depends on the size, quality and complexity. Normally a handmade scarf costs from 50 to 200 RMB while a handbag costs from 100 to 500 RMB.