Meet Zhuomiao, Xiangcheng’s first cat “Tourism Secretary”, and discover how this charming feline helps share the town’s centuries-old cat culture, local traditions, and scenic beauty with visitors.
On September 20, a local green-eyed cat named Zhuomiao(卓喵) won the public vote and became Xiangcheng’s first honorary “Tourism Secretary.” Xiangcheng lies in the southwest of Ganzi, Sichuan, on the southeastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau. Surrounded by mountains and rivers, its name means “a string of beads” in Tibetan.
Zhuomiao will share stories of Xiangcheng’s landscapes, food, and culture through social media and festival events. This unique role brings the county’s centuries-old cat-worship tradition into the spotlight.
Guardians and Symbols of Luck
Xiangcheng has a long history of respecting cats. According to local legend, the county once suffered from severe rodent infestations. People invited a “spiritual cat” to protect their food. The cat requested three things: a warm place to live, daily milk, and to be treated as family. Villagers agreed, and the mice disappeared. Since then, cats have symbolised luck and wealth.
Cats are part of daily life. Many homes feature cat paintings or clay sculptures on kitchen stoves. Cats roam freely in courtyards and houses, and villagers treat them as family rather than pets.
Modern Cat Charm
Today, cat culture intersects with tourism and the creative industries. The Xiangbala Cat Cultural & Creative Centre offers cat-themed products, and streets and villages are dotted with cat sculptures and murals. Walking along stone paths, visitors see vivid murals and playful sculptures, creating a lively cat-filled environment.
Zhuomiao’s new role gives the tradition a modern twist. The cat will interact with visitors during festivals and share stories from a “secretary’s” perspective, making Xiangcheng even more memorable.
Additional reporting by China Newsweek.
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