On August 21, the Henan Week opened at the China Pavilion of Expo 2025 Osaka with the theme "Innovative Henan, Win-Win Cooperation." The three-day event features cultural exchanges and displays of intangible heritage, including Kaifeng Woodblock New Year Pictures, demonstrated by renowned artist Li Li.

Li Li, born in 1980, is the director of the Woodblock New Year Picture Museum in Kaifeng and a national-level inheritor of the craft. Alongside his brother Ren Tao, he learned the art from their father, Master Ren Helin, and has dedicated his life to preserving the tradition.

During the event, Li Li gave live demonstrations of the woodblock printing process, drawing large crowds. Over a thousand visitors participated in hands-on printmaking on the first morning alone.

Originating in the Northern Song Dynasty, Kaifeng Woodblock New Year Pictures often depict myths, legends, and historical tales, expressing hopes for luck, peace, and happiness. The Door Gods prints are especially iconic, known for their bold, vivid style.

The event allowed international visitors to engage directly with Chinese heritage, with this ancient art form building a bridge between cultures.