Exploring the Diverse Forms and Dynamic Transmission of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Western Guangdong

As a vital component of Lingnan culture, the western region of Guangdong boasts an abundance of intangible cultural heritage (ICH), encompassing language, craftsmanship, festivals, and folk beliefs. These cultural expressions vividly reflect the region's distinctive geographic identity and deeply interwoven ethnic traditions. Yet, as urbanization accelerates and modern media penetrates daily life, traditional ICH faces stark challenges—aging or absent inheritors, shifting cultural values, and a diminishing sense of relevance in contemporary contexts. This study begins by examining the regional backdrop of western Guangdong, mapping out its rich and multifaceted cultural landscape. It then delves into the interplay between linguistic diversity, expressive forms, regional distributions, and the merging of tradition with modernity to uncover the underlying mechanisms of cultural evolution. On this foundation, the paper proposes strategies for sustainable transmission, including inclusive participation, educational integration, cultural-tourism synergy, and digital empowerment—aiming to ensure a vibrant, living legacy for generations to come and support the enduring vitality of regional culture.