In Wanghebei village, Qingdao's Jimo district, villagers are busy making flower-shaped steamed buns ahead of the Spring Festival. [Photo/Guanhai News]

In Wanghebei village, Qingdao's Jimo district, Xue Zengyu and her husband were busy making flower-shaped steamed buns at home on Jan 17. The freshly steamed flower buns come in a dazzling array of colors and shapes, and the aroma they emit is impossible to resist.

Layue, the twelfth lunar month, is a busy time for Xue and her husband. With skillful hands, they knead ordinary dough into uniquely shaped works of art.

"This morning alone, I received over 10 calls from customers in nearby villages, some ordering special flower-shaped steamed buns for their children's birthdays, others wanting to buy fish-shaped buns. Since the beginning of this month, it's been a struggle to keep up with demand," Xue said with a smile.

In the Jimo area, local residents uphold a tradition of making flower-shaped steamed buns before the Chinese New Year, which helps them get into the festive spirit. The buns symbolize people's hopes for a sweet and prosperous year ahead, while also bringing warmth and joy to the community.