Published: 14:31, February 11, 2026
A millennia-old grace
By Wang Zhan in Hong Kong
Staff dressed as Song Dynasty(960-1279)-style guards pose for a photo with a passenger at the Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in Guangzhou, South China's Guangdong province, Feb 11, 2026. (PARKER ZHENG / CHINA DAILY)

Travelers passing through Terminal 2 of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport were met with an unexpected yet delightful sight this Spring Festival season—airport staff dressed as Song Dynasty(960-1279)-style guards.

Blending ancient aesthetics with modern service, the initiative, part of the airport's cultural campaign for the Chinese New Year travel rush, has captured widespread attention online.

Staff responsible for explosive detection and security patrols embraced the heritage look, bringing a unique charm to their professional duties.

China Daily's Parker Zheng took the photos on Wednesday.