Inheritance and Innovation of Lanjiefu Culture in the Digital Economy: A Semiotic and Design-Based Perspective

Abstract

Lanjiefu is a traditional folk practice in Wenzhou that represents a complex system of ritual, visual symbolism, and social relations that sustains local identity and collective memory. In the digital era, cultural heritage faces increasing pressure from globalization, technological change, and shifting social structures. Although digital tools offer new opportunities for preservation and dissemination, they also risk reducing cultural expressions to decontextualized visual content. Existing studies on Lanjiefu and similar traditions tend to emphasize either documentation and preservation or commercialization and design innovation. However, these approaches often lack a systematic framework for interpreting cultural meanings and for guiding their appropriate translation into contemporary contexts. This study addresses this gap by examining how core symbolic elements of Lanjiefu can be preserved and adapted without losing their embedded cultural significance. A qualitative case study approach was employed, using field observations, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions with 53 participants. Data were analyzed through thematic and semiotic analysis, complemented by a design-based framework. The findings show that Lanjiefu operates as a structured symbolic system and that its transmission has weakened due to economic pressures, time constraints, and changes in the digital lifestyle. The study proposes a distinction between symbolic extraction and superficial borrowing, and positions digital technology as a supportive layer rather than a primary driver. The research aims to identify core symbolic elements, explain transmission challenges, and develop a framework for context-sensitive cultural translation. The study concludes that sustainable cultural inheritance requires integration of semiotic interpretation, design application, and community-based practices.