Jiaodong huabobo, which literally means flour flower, refers to flower-shaped steamed buns. The time-honored treat has entered peak season in Chengyang district, Qingdao as Spring Festival approaches.

Spring Festival, or Chinese Lunar New Year, falls on Jan 22 this year. It is the most important traditional Chinese festival for family reunions. It is also the happiest time of all for Chinese people to get together to enjoy delicious food.

A worker shows a steamed bun in the shape of a rabbit at a workshop in Chengyang district, Qingdao on Jan 10. 2023 is the Year of the Rabbit, which signifies longevity, peace, prosperity in Chinese culture, and hope. [Photo/IC]

A worker colors the flower-shaped steamed buns at a workshop in Chengyang district, Qingdao on Jan 10. [Photo/IC]

Orders for Jiaodong huabobo are surging in Qingdao as Spring Festival is around the corner. [Photo/IC]

Jiaodong huabobo in different shapes are on sale at the workshop in Chengyang district, Qingdao. The meanings associated with the delicacy are good luck, blessings, peace, longevity and prosperity. [Photo/IC]

Steamed buns decorated with red dates are popular among customers. [Photo/IC]

Jiaodong huabobo is a Shandong provincial intangible cultural heritage item. [Photo/IC]

A worker packs the Jiaodong huabobo at a workshop in Chengyang district, Qingdao on Jan 10. [Photo/IC]

Gift sets of Jiaodong huabobo are popular around Spring Festival. [Photo/IC]