Festival Background
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Significance: The Guanyin Festival at Guanyin Pond is one of the most important traditional festivals in Dali Town, Yunnan Province. It is a significant religious, cultural, and commercial event for the local Bai ethnic group and other residents.
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Date: The festival is held on the 19th day of the 2nd, 6th, and 9th lunar months each year. The most important celebration takes place on the 19th day of the 2nd lunar month, which is believed to be the birthday of Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Mercy.
Key Activities
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Worship and Religious Ceremonies: Thousands of devotees gather at Guanyin Pond to pay homage to Guanyin. The temple is filled with the sound of chanting, the smell of incense, and the sight of worshippers offering prayers and making wishes.
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Cultural Performances: The festival features various cultural activities, including traditional Bai ethnic songs and dances, instrumental performances, and recitations of Buddhist scriptures by local “Lotus Pool Associations” (莲池会).
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Market and Trade: The festival also serves as a vibrant marketplace, with stalls selling clothing, handicrafts, local specialties, and a wide variety of traditional snacks. The atmosphere is lively, with people engaging in trade and socializing.
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Wild Cooking and Socializing: Villagers and visitors set up stoves and cook meals together in the fields and along the roads, creating a communal and festive atmosphere.
Cultural Significance
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Religious and Cultural Fusion: The Guanyin Festival is a unique blend of religious devotion and cultural celebration. It reflects the Bai people’s deep connection to Buddhism and their tradition of incorporating religious practices into daily life.
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Symbol of Compassion: Guanyin is not only a religious figure but also a symbol of compassion, justice, and hope. The festival reinforces these values within the community.
Modern Significance
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Tourist Attraction: In recent years, the Guanyin Festival has become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from across Yunnan and beyond. It offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Bai people.
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Cultural Preservation: Efforts are made to preserve and promote the traditions associated with the festival, ensuring that this important cultural heritage continues to be passed down through generations.
Practical Information
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Location: Guanyin Pond is located in Guanyin Tang Village, between Dali Ancient Town and Xiaguan, approximately 5 kilometers from Dali Ancient Town.
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Transportation: Visitors can reach Guanyin Pond by taking bus routes 4 or 8 from Xiaguan to Dali Ancient Town and then transferring to a local bus or taxi.
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Tickets: The entrance fee to Guanyin Pond is 10 yuan.
The Guanyin Festival at Guanyin Pond is a vibrant celebration that showcases the rich cultural traditions and community spirit of the Bai people. It is a must-see event for anyone interested in experiencing the unique cultural heritage of Yunnan.
Geographical Location
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Location: Longwei City, also known as Longwei Pass, is located on the north bank of the Xier River in Xiaguan, Dali City, Yunnan Province. It extends eastward from the south slope of Cangshan Xieyang Peak to Daguan Yi Village.
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Accessibility: Visitors can reach Longwei Pass by taking bus No. 10 in the urban area to Heilongqiao Station or by taking the No. 4 bus or minibus from the ancient city to Meidenqiao North Station. Taxis are also available for direct navigation to Longwei Pass.
Historical Background
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Historical Significance: Longwei City is the site of the ancient Nanzhao City and was the southern gate of the Nanzhao capital. It has a history of nearly 1,300 years and witnessed the entire process of the “Tianbao War” and the decline of the Tang Dynasty.
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Architectural Heritage: The site features well-preserved ancient streets and alleys, along with historical buildings such as the Longwei Pass Gate, Shoukang Tower, and a 100-meter-long section of the western city wall.
Cultural and Historical Value
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Cultural Significance: Longwei Pass is not only a historical site but also a cultural symbol of Dali. It reflects the rich history and cultural heritage of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdom periods.
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Architectural Style: The ancient streets and buildings retain the quaint old architectural style, showcasing the traditional Bai ethnic craftsmanship and design.
Modern Significance
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Tourist Attraction: Longwei Pass has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors interested in history, culture, and architecture. The site offers a unique blend of historical ruins and modern artistic elements, with many unique shops and cafes built on the foundation of original courtyards.
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Lifestyle Experience: The area retains the rustic charm of old Dali, with local vegetable markets, traditional snack shops, tailor shops, and barber shops. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local lifestyle and enjoy a slow-paced, nostalgic experience.
Recommended Activities
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Exploring the Ruins: Walk through the ancient streets and alleys to admire the historical architecture and learn about the rich history of the site.
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Cultural Immersion: Visit local markets and try authentic Dali snacks such as rice noodles, barbecued meat, and shredded bait.
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Relaxation: Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at one of the many cafes or teahouses, sipping coffee or Pu’er tea while basking in the sun.
Best Time to Visit
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Weather: It is recommended to visit on a sunny day when the weather is pleasant, allowing for better appreciation of the historical details and architecture.
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Duration: Allocate about 2-3 hours to fully explore the site and enjoy the cultural and historical atmosphere.
Longwei City Ruins in Dali offer a unique glimpse into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this site is definitely worth a visit.
Geographical Location
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Location: Baiwang Temple, also known as Heding Temple, is located in Xiaguan Town, Dali City, Yunnan Province. It is situated at the foot of Cangshan Mountain, near the historic site of Taihe City.
Historical Background
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Historical Significance: Heding Temple, originally known as Jin Gang City, was built during the Nanzhao period as a summer retreat for the Nanzhao king. It later became known as Baiwang Temple during the Qing Dynasty.
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Architectural Heritage: The temple is associated with the rich history of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdom periods. It is said that the famous Tianbao War was commanded from this site.
Cultural and Historical Value
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Cultural Significance: Heding Temple is not only a historical site but also a cultural symbol of Dali. It reflects the deep connection between the local Bai people and their historical and religious traditions.
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Architectural Style: The temple features traditional Bai architectural elements, showcasing the craftsmanship and design unique to the region.
Modern Significance
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Tourist Attraction: Heding Temple has become a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. The temple provides a serene environment for reflection and learning.
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Viewing Platform: The temple is located at a high elevation, offering panoramic views of Erhai Lake and the surrounding Cangshan Mountains. It is an ideal spot for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of Dali.
Recommended Activities
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Exploring the Temple: Visitors can explore the temple grounds, admire the ancient architecture, and learn about the history of the site.
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Cultural Immersion: Participate in local cultural activities or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the temple.
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Photography: Capture the stunning views of Erhai Lake and the Cangshan Mountains from the temple’s viewing platform.
Best Time to Visit
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Weather: It is recommended to visit on a clear day to fully appreciate the panoramic views and the details of the temple architecture.
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Duration: Allocate about 1-2 hours to explore the temple and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Heding Temple in Xiaguan Town, Dali, is a place where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. It offers visitors a unique and memorable experience, making it a must-visit destination in Dali.
Introduction of the Festival
- Chinese Name:大理古城花朝节
- English Name: Flower Festival (Huazhaojie) in Dali Ancient Town
- Location: Dali Ancient Town
The Huazhao Festival commemorates the birthday of flowers and is commonly referred to as Huazhao. It is also popularly known as “Flower God Festival,” “Birthday of Hundred Flowers,” “Birthday of the Flower God,” and “Vegetable Picking Festival.” It is a traditional Han Chinese festival that is popular in regions such as Northeast China, North China, East China, and Central South China. It generally takes place on the second day, twelfth day, or fifteenth day of the second lunar month. During the festival, people gather to go on outings in the countryside to enjoy the flowers, a practice known as “Taqing,” while young girls cut multi-colored paper and stick them onto flower branches, referred to as “Shanghong” (enjoying the reds).
The Huazhao Festival has a long history and is recorded as early as in the “Tao Zhu Gong Shu” from the Spring and Autumn period. The Huazhao Festival corresponds with the Mid-Autumn Festival. According to the “Guangqunfangpu·Tianshipu II,” citing the “Chengzhai Shihua”: “The twelfth day of the second lunar month in Dongjing (present-day Kaifeng) is known as the Huazhao Festival, celebrated with butterfly-catching.” It also cites “Hanmoku Ji”: “In Luoyang, the customs observe the second day of the second lunar month as the Huazhao Festival, where both scholars and commoners engage in outings, also known as the Vegetable Picking Festival.” This indicates that the date of the Huazhao Festival may vary by region. By the Qing Dynasty, the fifteenth day of the second lunar month was generally observed as Huazhao in the north, while the twelfth day was recognized as the birthday of flowers in the south. Given the differing climatic conditions between northern and southern China, it is reasonable for the festival to be celebrated a few days earlier in the south.
The period from March to June is the most beautiful time in Dali, without exception. It is often said that Dali has the best scenery in March, which is indeed true. Although flowers bloom abundantly throughout the year in Dali, the spring season sees the most vibrant and flourishing flowers. Indeed, they are flourishing; when you witness the flowers competing in their splendid bloom, you will believe in their vibrant life. This vitality also invigorates Dali, making it even more lively.
Local Activities of Festival
1. Flower Viewing and Appreciation
Residents and visitors often participate in outings to enjoy the blooming flowers in gardens, parks, and scenic areas around Dali. Traditional activities include “Taqing,” where people take leisurely walks to admire the flowers, photograph the blossoms, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes.
2. Floral Decorations
Many locals decorate their homes, marketplaces, and public spaces with flowers and colorful paper crafts. This is a way to celebrate the arrival of spring and represents renewal and vitality.
3. Traditional Performances
The festival often features traditional music and dance performances. Local artists and community members put on shows that celebrate the cultural heritage of Dali and the surrounding regions, showcasing folk dances, songs, and theatrical performances.
4. Culinary Activities
During the Flower Festival, special dishes and snacks made from seasonal ingredients are often prepared. Many local markets and vendors offer traditional foods, incorporating flowers and fresh produce typical of the season.
5. Craft Workshops
Artisans may conduct workshops on traditional crafts, such as flower arranging, paper cutting, and other artistic expressions related to flowers. Visitors can participate in these workshops to learn about local crafts and create their own works of art.
6. Parades and Processions
In some years, parades may occur, featuring floats adorned with flowers and representations of local culture. Participants often dress in traditional clothing, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the ancient town.
7. Flower Markets
Special flower markets are often set up during the festival, where local florists and vendors sell fresh flowers, plants, and floral arrangements. This provides an opportunity for the community to buy beautiful blooms and brings a colorful ambiance to the town.
8. Cultural Exhibitions
Local museums and cultural centers may host exhibitions related to the Flower Festival, showcasing the history, significance, and variations of flower festivals throughout China and especially in Yunnan province.
9. Community Participation
Community members are encouraged to participate in collective activities such as planting flowers or participating in environmental conservation initiatives, emphasizing the importance of preserving Dali’s natural beauty.
10. Photography and Art Contests
Competitions may be held for photography and art inspired by the flowers of Dali, allowing both locals and visitors to showcase their creativity and appreciation for the natural scenery.
City God Temple of Dali Ancient Town is one of the Best Tourist Attractions and Top Things to Do when travel to Dali, it introduces the main scenic spots, address, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit, How to Get there, the highlights, facts, history, photos, visiting routes, travel tips, tour maps of City God Temple of Dali Ancient Town.
Chinese Name:大理古城城隍庙
English Name: Chenghuang Temple or City God Temple of Dali Ancient Town
https://www.sohu.com/a/151902441_641489
Tianmoya Temple in Weishan County is one of the Best Tourist Attractions and Top Things to Do when travel to Dali, it introduces the main scenic spots, address, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit, How to Get there, the highlights, facts, history, photos, visiting routes, travel tips, tour maps of Tianmoya Temple in Weishan County.
Chinese Name:巍山县天摩牙寺
English Name: Tianmoya Temple in Weishan County, Dali
http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_b29d263e01016osb.html
Dali Tianmoya Temple in Weishan County, travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit, How to Get there, the highlights, facts, history, photos, weather, accommodation, visiting routes, travel tips, tour maps of Tianmoya Temple in Dali.
Overview
- Chinese Name:大理巍山县接金姑
- English Name: Jiejingu Festival in Weishan County, Dali
- Location: Weishan County, Dali
- Significance: The festival is primarily a religious and agricultural event, where local communities offer thanks for the harvest, pray for good fortune, and celebrate the bond between people and nature. It is also a time for commemorating ancestors and reinforcing community ties.
The Jiejingu Festival, celebrated in Weishan County, Dali, is an important cultural event for the local Bai and Yi ethnic communities. This festival is characterized by various traditional activities that showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage, community spirit, and agricultural practices.From the 9th day of the second lunar month to the 23rd day of the fourth lunar month, in Dali and Weishan (Xizhou Shengyuan Temple, Dali Chenghuang Temple, Qiwucun, Dacanglong Xuanshan Tienmoya Temple): On the 9th day of the second lunar month, depart from Qiangdong Shengyuan Temple to welcome the Golden Aunt (no activities, departure by mutual agreement); on the 11th, arrive at Dacanglong Xuanshan Tienmoya Temple, the Golden Aunt Temple; on the 14th, go to Qiwucun at the foot of Santai Po; then return to Shengyuan Temple; on the 23rd of April, during the ‘Around the Three Spirits’ event, send the Golden Aunt to Dali Chenghuang Temple; finally, escort her back to Tienmoya Temple.
Local Activities
- Ceremonial Offerings: The festival begins with ceremonial offerings made to deities and ancestors, expressing gratitude for the harvest and seeking blessings for future crops. Locals might present food, incense, and other symbolic items.
- Cultural Performances: Traditional music and dance performances are integral to the festival. Bai and Yi performers showcase folk songs, dances, and theatrical performances that reflect local legends, historical stories, and daily life.
- Singing Competitions: Similar to the Xiaojizu Singing Festival, the Jiejingu Festival features singing contests where participants perform traditional songs. These competitions often involve elaborate costumes and are judged based on vocal ability and cultural expression.
- Community Feasting: The festival includes communal meals where families and friends gather to enjoy traditional dishes. Food may include local specialties made from fresh ingredients, symbolizing abundance and unity.
- Processions: Various processions may take place during the festival, featuring floats and participants dressed in traditional attire. These processions can include music and dance, creating a festive atmosphere that engages the entire community.
- Agricultural Displays: Farmers may display their harvests, showcasing the bounty of their crops. This is often an opportunity for local artisans to sell their goods, including handmade agricultural tools, textiles, and crafts.
- Games and Competitions: Traditional games and competitions may be organized, encouraging participation from all age groups. These activities promote interaction and competition in a friendly and festive environment.
- Rituals for Blessings: Specific rituals, such as prayers for good harvests and blessings for health and happiness, are conducted during the festival. These rituals reflect the spiritual connection of the local people to their land and ancestors.
- Cultural Exchange: The festival serves as a hub for cultural exchange, where locals and visitors can learn about the Bai and Yi cultures through demonstrations of art, tradition, and culinary practices.
- Educational Workshops: Some festivals may include workshops or demonstrations about traditional crafts, farming techniques, or cooking methods, allowing attendees to engage with and learn from local traditions.
The Jiejingu Festival is a vibrant and essential celebration in Weishan County, emphasizing community spirit, gratitude, and cultural heritage. Through various activities, locals honor their agricultural roots and strengthen their social bonds, making it a significant event in the regional calendar. Visitors to the festival can experience the authentic culture and traditional practices of the Bai and Yi communities while participating in the joyous celebrations.
Boluo Temple of Cangshan Mountain in Dali is one of the Best Tourist Attractions and Top Things to Do when travel to Dali, it introduces the main scenic spots, address, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit, How to Get there, the highlights, facts, history, photos, visiting routes, travel tips, tour maps of Boluo Temple of Cangshan Mountain in Dali.
Chinese Name:大理市波罗寺
English Name: Boluo Temple of Cangshan Mountain in Dali City
Chinese Name:鹤庆县天子庙会
English Name: Tianzi Temple Fair in Heqing County, Dali
Tianzi Temple Fair is held in Tianzimiao Cave in Heqing County every year.
Overview
Kunming Huadu Ocean World (昆明花都海洋世界) is located within the Huahua World (花花世界) of the Chenggong Flower Industry Park in Kunming, making it an aquatic wonderland in the heart of the city. The park brings together sea lions, penguins, and beluga whales, along with special underwater performances by a water show team.
On June 23, 2024, Kunming Huadu Ocean World announced that it would be permanently closed starting June 24, 2024.
Key Information:
- Chinese Name: Kunming Huadu Ocean World (昆明花都海洋世界)
- Location: Hall No. 5, Huahua World (花花世界), Chenggong District, Kunming City
- Operating Hours: 09:00-17:30
- Famous Attractions: Fantasy Jellyfish Palace (梦幻水母故宫), Children’s Playground (儿童乐园), Polar World (极地世界)
History and Development
On June 23, 2024, the park issued an official statement that it would cease operations from June 24, 2024. Despite its closure, Kunming Huadu Ocean World remains a significant part of Kunming’s history as an innovative marine-themed park.
Attractions
Kunming Huadu Ocean World offers a unique educational and entertaining experience, combining marine life with interactive learning. It breaks the traditional theme park mold by recreating natural underwater ecosystems. Notable attractions include:
- Fantasy Jellyfish Palace (梦幻水母故宫): A magical display of jellyfish, where visitors can learn about these fascinating creatures in a beautiful environment.
- Underwater Paradise (海底仙境): A marine life zone showcasing a wide variety of sea creatures in a setting that mimics their natural habitats.
- Children’s Playground (儿童乐园): A dedicated area for children to play and explore.
- Ice and Snow World (冰雪世界): A cold-themed section where visitors can experience an arctic-like atmosphere.
- Science Popularization Museum (科普馆): Educational exhibits focused on marine biology and environmental science.
- Pet Paradise (萌宠乐园): A family-friendly space where children can interact with small and friendly animals.
Zones and Layout
The park is divided into nine major sections, offering diverse experiences:
- Rainforest Wonders (雨林奇观): A lush, tropical-themed exhibit.
- Water Play Beach (戏水沙滩): An interactive beach environment for visitors to enjoy.
- Shark Tank (鲨鱼池): A thrilling exhibit featuring various species of sharks.
- Fantasy Jellyfish Palace (梦幻水母馆): A section dedicated to jellyfish.
- Polar World (极地世界): Home to polar animals like penguins.
- Underwater World (海底世界): A large aquarium showcasing various marine species.
- Underwater Tunnel (海底隧道): A tunnel that allows visitors to walk through a transparent path surrounded by marine life.
- Dolphin Pavilion (海豚馆): A place to see dolphins up close.
- Seal Pavilion (海豹馆): A section dedicated to seals.
- Penguin Pavilion (企鹅馆): A cool area featuring penguins.
- Coral Kingdom (珊瑚王国): A vibrant display of colorful coral reefs and the marine life that inhabits them.
Facility Layout:
- Basement & Ground Floor: The main aquarium areas.
- Second Floor: Children’s entertainment and retail shops.
- Third Floor: Dining options and flower arrangement workshops.
- Fourth Floor: The Science Museum (科技馆).
- Fifth Floor: The Reptile Pavilion (爬行动物馆).
Operating Hours
Kunming Huadu Ocean World was open year-round with the following schedule:
- Regular Hours: 09:00-17:30 (Last ticket sold at 16:00, final entry at 16:30).
- Holiday Hours: 09:00-18:00 (Ticket sales stop 1 hour 30 minutes before closing, and entry is allowed until 1 hour before closing).
Discount Policies
The park offered the following discounts:
- Children: Children under 1.1 meters in height were allowed free entry (when accompanied by a parent). Children between 1.1 meters and 1.4 meters enjoyed discounted tickets.
- Seniors: Seniors aged 65 and above (with a valid ID or senior citizen card) were eligible for discounted tickets.
Overview
- Chinese Name:大理市挖色镇挖色村本主节
- English Name: Benzhu Worship Festival in Wase Village of Wase Town, Dali
- Location: Wase Village of Wase Town, Dali
The Benzhu Worship Festival honors local deities known as “Benzhu,” who are believed to be protectors of the village and its inhabitants, crucial for ensuring agricultural prosperity and community well-being.
Origin of the Benzhu Worship Festival
The origin of the Benzhu Worship Festival can be traced back to ancient agrarian societies where people relied heavily on the land for their sustenance. The Bai people, as well as other ethnic groups in the region, traditionally worshipped nature and ancestral spirits, believing that these deities played a crucial role in their agricultural success.
The festival is rooted in the cultural practices of the Bai people, who have historically honored various local deities tied to specific places and natural features such as mountains, rivers, and fields. The annual celebration serves as a communal expression of gratitude and a request for blessings related to health, harvest, and safety. Over time, the festival has evolved into a vibrant celebration of Bai culture, incorporating traditional music, dance, and community bonding.
Local Activities During the Festival
- Ritual Offerings: The festival begins with ceremonies where villagers present offerings to the Benzhu deities. These offerings typically include food, flowers, incense, and other symbolic items that are believed to please the spirits and invoke their blessings.
- Processions: A grand procession is a highlight of the festival, where villagers dress in traditional Bai attire and carry ceremonial items to the Benzhu shrine. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, creating a lively and spiritual atmosphere.
- Traditional Music and Dance: Cultural performances are an essential aspect of the festival. Local musicians play traditional instruments, and dancers perform folk dances that narrate stories of history and mythology. These performances often involve the entire community and are a celebration of Bai identity.
- Community Feasting: Food plays a central role in the festival. Families and friends gather to share traditional Bai dishes, symbolizing unity and abundance. The communal meal fosters connections among villagers and reinforces social ties.
- Cultural Competitions: The festival may include competitions in traditional games and sports, showcasing skills specific to the region. These competitions encourage friendly rivalry and community participation.
- Artisan Stalls: Local artisans often set up stalls to showcase their crafts, including textiles, pottery, and agricultural products. This allows visitors to engage with local culture and purchase handmade goods.
- Spiritual Prayers: Throughout the festival, villagers engage in prayers and rituals to seek blessings from the Benzhu for a good harvest, health, and prosperity in the coming year. This spiritual engagement reinforces the community’s connection to their beliefs and traditions.
- Cultural Workshops: Some festivals may feature workshops where locals can teach traditional crafts or cooking techniques, allowing participants to learn about Bai culture hands-on.
- Fireworks and Celebrations: In some years, the festival may be concluded with fireworks and other celebratory activities, adding to the festive atmosphere and marking the significance of the event.
Overview
- Chinese Name: 大理双廊镇青山村本主节(上刀山/刀山会)
- English Name: Benzhu Worship and Knife-ladder-climbing Festival in Qingshan Village of Shuanglang Town, Dali
- Location: Qingshan Village of Shuanglang Town, Dali
Benzhu is a unique religious belief of the Bai ethnic group in the Dali area and is an important component of Dali’s historical and cultural heritage. The term Benzhu means “the lord of this realm” and refers to the protective deity of a village or several villages. The deities worshipped as Benzhu are numerous and varied, including legendary gods, emperors, loyal officials, heroes, righteous figures, filial sons, virtuous women, and a small number of nature deities. Almost every village has a Benzhu temple, which houses wooden carvings or clay sculptures of the Benzhu. The birthday of the village’s Benzhu is celebrated as a grand festival, and thus the Benzhu worshiped and the dates of the Benzhu festival vary from village to village. Villagers visit the Benzhu temple to pray for blessings, regardless of whether they are aspiring for wealth and power, facing hardships and illnesses, or celebrating childbirth.
The Benzhu festival follows a set of basic procedures, including inviting the deity, welcoming the deity, sacrificing to the deity, and entertaining the deity. The Benzhu returns to the Benzhu temple, with the festivities lasting for one day or several days. Accompanied by the beautiful and melodious music of the Dongjing (a type of traditional music) and various folk songs and dances, along with different unique features from each village, this festival has been passed down through thousands of years, forming a distinct Benzhu culture in the Bai ethnic region.
Qingshan Village, located in Shuanglang Town of Dali City, lies by the shores of Erhai Lake and has a rich historical and cultural heritage. It is a Bai village situated near the mountains and water. The villagers have the custom of worshipping Benzhu, and the fourth day of the first lunar month is celebrated as Qingshan Village’s Benzhu festival every year.
A major feature of the Benzhu festival in Qingshan Village is the “Chopping Mountain” ceremony, which is exceptionally grand and captivating, showcasing a distinctive charm within the Benzhu festival of the Bai people in Dali.
In the past, the Benzhu festival’s “Chopping Mountain” was also popular in places like Shangcun near Xiaguan Town, such as Jiangjun Cave, but the performance was quite difficult and has since been lost to time. It is hoped that the “Chopping Mountain” activity of the Benzhu festival in Qingshan Village can be passed down through generations.
In the early morning, people gather at the square next to the Benzhu temple in the village to burn incense and pray.
The preparations were very serious and meticulous, with clearly defined divisions of labor, and the information was publicly posted.
The atmosphere became lively and vibrant, with lively movements like dragons flying and phoenixes dancing
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