Current science elective courses in Chinese high schools overemphasize subject knowledge, lack course resources, and apply a single instruction methodology. This study attempts to reform high school elective chemistry courses and aims to promote chemical science literacy in students. It takes the example of the development and practice of elective courses titled "The Mysteries of Chemistry in Intangible Cultural Heritage". This course encompasses seven chemical themes closely related to health and safety, environmental protection, and social development: combustion, compounds, aqueous solutions, metallic materials, nonmetallic materials, biomacromolecules, and natural resins. The course contents are combined with the human intangible cultural heritage to stimulate student interest by incorporating a rich experience of the chemical sciences. The course focuses on experiential learning processes and employs student-centered situational teaching and project-based learning, combining experimental learning, class discussions, and reflective essay writing. The study results reveal that the course improves academic performance and enhances student interest and self-efficacy in chemistry learning; it also provides students with continuous help in engaging in the safeguarding and inheritance of their intangible cultural heritage and substantially develops scientific literacy.