China
2026.04.17 16:34 GMT+8

Three-sword hairpins, more than just a hairstyle

Updated 2026.04.17 16:34 GMT+8
CGTN

These hairpins have been worn for generations by women in Fuzhou. Known as santiaozan, or three-sword hairpins, they're shaped like small blades. Each pin carries a meaning – one for the country, one for the family, and one for oneself. It's more than a hairstyle. It reflects a distinct local aesthetic, but also something deeper – strength, resilience, and a quiet sense of independence. CGTN's Yang Yan tries it for herself, from the intricate styling process to the final reveal. Up close, every step shows just how precise and delicate this craft really is. For local women, it's more than beauty – it's memory, identity and a living spirit. 

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