Munao Zongge Square in Longchuan, Dehong

Munao Zongge Square (陇川县目瑙纵歌广场) is the central venue for the Jingpo ethnic group's traditional festival, Munao Zongge, located in Longchuan County (陇川县), Dehong Prefecture (德宏州). The square is part of the Longchuan County Forest Park and serves as a key site for the festival's activities. As a holder of national-level intangible cultural heritage, the square hosts the grand "thousands of people dancing" event every year. The 16th Munao Zongge Festival Week (October 2–8, 2025) will include unique activities such as ethnic unity evening parties and intangible cultural heritage exhibitions.

Features of Munao Zongge Square

Cultural Celebrations

At the center of the square stands the "Munao Shidong" monument, which engraves the migration history of the Jingpo people. The spiral-shaped dance floor symbolizes the ethnic totem. Visitors are invited to join the mass dance and experience traditional performances such as the Long Knife Dance and Silver Ball Dance.

Supporting Facilities

The surrounding area features shops offering Yunnan-Henan handmade custom home textiles. During the festival, food stalls offer a variety of local dishes, including Hand-made Rice Noodles and Jingpo Green Leaf Feast.

Sub-venues for Expanded Experience

In addition to the main venue, sub-venues such as Pengsheng Village (朋生村) create a rich cultural tourism experience with a "main venue + featured routes" approach.

Practical Information

• Location: Munao Zongge Square, Longchuan County Forest Park (Main Venue), and sub-venues like Pengsheng Village (accessible according to the event schedule).

• Best Time to Visit: Large festivals such as October and around the Lunar New Year.

Significance of Munao Zongge Festival

"Munao" is a word in the Jingpo language, and "Zongge" is a term in the Lawa language, together meaning "everyone come and dance." Munao Zongge is the grandest and most significant traditional festival of the Jingpo people. Held on the 15th day of the first lunar month, the festival draws tens of thousands of people who dance in unison, following the beat of the drums. It is considered one of the most spectacular group dances in the world.

Dance Rituals and Performances

At 9:00 AM, the sound of the bronze drums marks the beginning of the Munao Zongge festivities. Led by the "Nao Shuang Nao Ba" (dance leaders), participants move in an orderly manner into the dance area. The "Nao Shuang" leads the dancers around the Munao Shidong, performing steps that symbolize luck and prosperity, while the "Nao Ba" guides everyone in a circle around the monument. The dance formation changes dynamically but remains coordinated, with participants and visitors singing and dancing together in a powerful display.

Traditional Dances and Costumes

The men of the Jingpo community perform the Long Knife Dance, showcasing strong and athletic movements. Women elegantly dance with silver balls on their shoulders, displaying graceful and fluid movements. The colorful ethnic costumes captivate onlookers, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Audience members are often seen capturing the moment on their phones.

Cultural Heritage of Longchuan County

Longchuan County is known as the Hometown of Munao Zongge, with the largest Jingpo population in China and the most well-preserved cultural traditions related to the Munao Zongge Festival. Pengsheng Square in Jinghan Town (景罕镇) serves as a major venue for the festival and attracts many tourists each year. The area not only preserves the authentic Jingpo culture but also continues to innovate, ensuring that the ancient festival remains vibrant and alive.

Upcoming Munao Zongge Festivities

The Munao Zongge celebrations will last for two days, from February 12 to 13, with four performances scheduled—two each day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. The performances will last for several hours. Throughout the day and night, Pengsheng Square will be filled with festive joy. Visitors can enjoy exciting dance performances, sample local specialties, and purchase unique handcrafted products. Additionally, there will be a variety of interactive activities for everyone to participate in, ensuring a rich and immersive festival experience.

Experience the Jingpo Culture

In Longchuan, the birthplace of Munao Zongge, visitors can experience the unique cultural charm of the Jingpo people. The festival offers a deep connection with ancient traditions while celebrating a vibrant, joyous occasion. Come join us in Longchuan, the land of Munao Zongge, and celebrate this beautiful, festive moment filled with happiness and blessings.