China’s time-honored brands are increasingly leveraging innovative brand identity design and digital storytelling to contemporize the expression of cultural heritage. This study examines how heritage brands integrate traditional cultural elements with modern aesthetics through visual identity redesign, cross-industry collaborations, original IP and character creation, and short video content innovation. Based on representative cases from the past five years, the paper analyzes strategies in brand visual image renewal, narrative techniques on short video platforms, and audience engagement mechanisms. The findings indicate that effective revitalization requires a delicate balance between cultural preservation and contemporary appeal, evaluated by a pair of criteria looking at cultural accuracy (keeping the main traditional symbols, craft stories, and history) versus current adaptation standards (how well kids like it, online performance, and sales), with short video platforms serving as both storytelling media and interactive engagement channels, particularly for younger consumers. Data analysis reveals significant improvements in brand engagement and commercial performance following such initiatives. The study used YOY percentage growth analysis and comparatives, with video submission volumes at 99% increase, user searches of topics 217% greater, orders of products 73% more and sales revenue 150% increased versus the pre-innovation base year figures from the Douyin platform. This research enriches the understanding of cultural heritage conservation and revitalization in the digital era, offering practical implications for brand management, cultural communication, and the sustainable development of heritage brands.