Brief Introduction

Daogan Festival (刀杆节) is a traditional festival of Lisu ethnic groups living in Lushui County(泸水县), Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture(怒江傈僳族自治州).Due to the death of the old artists, they were once lost in Nujiang Prefecture and recovered in recent years. They are mainly distributed in Luzhang Village(鲁掌镇), Luzu Village(鲁祖村) and Loma Village(洛玛村) of Lushui County(泸水县).

Legend

In the Ming Dynasty, when the people who is not in the same clan of feudal China invaded the frontier in Yunnan, The King dispatched Wang Ji(王骥), the Ministry of War in feudal China, to take troops to resist the enemy. Wang Ji fought in unity with the local Lisu ethnic groups and soon expelled the invaders. Later, Wang Ji was murdered by a traitor. In order to commemorate Wang Ji’s great achievements and pray sacrifices to the souls of the brave soldiers who died bravely to defend the frontier, Lisu ethnic groups held the activities of Going up to Daoshan and Going down to Sea of  Fire(上刀山,下火海), and designated the fifteenth day of the first lunar month of each year as Daogan Festival.

Meaning

Going up to Daoshan and Going down to the Sea of Fire is the main custom performance activity of Daogan Festival, which reproduces the life experience of people who live in mountain crossing mountains, as well as the arduous spirit and skills of climbing mountain.

Performing

Use pine tree as tool pole, iron knife as tool ladder, wrinkle paper as flower, and bamboo as flower stick.When Going up to Daoshan and Going down to the sea of fire, we play with cowhide drums(鼓), gongs(锣), hairpins(钗), suonas(唢呐) and other musical instruments under the knife pole. There are strict procedures and sacrificial ceremonies from flower-lighting(点花), knife-pointing(点刀), knife-playing(耍刀), knife-piercing(扎刀), flower-greeting(迎花), altar-setting(设坛), knife pole(祭刀杆), vertical pole(竖杆), dragon-sacrificing(祭龙), knife-mounting(上刀) and knife-disassembling(拆刀) to the sea of fire. Knife pole is commonly known as gold pillar, silver pillar or male pillar, mother pillar, respectively, representing the deceased and the living. Thirty-six long sharp knives, representing 365 days a year, are tied on both sides of the knife ladder with paper flowers made of five-color paper.

After the knife pole is tied up, Xiangtong /香通(sorcerer) recites words in his mouth and performs knife dance in drum music. After the knife dance, in the sound of Suona and gongs and drums, the knife-bearer grasps the knife edge with both hands, treads barefoot on the knife edge and climbs up. When he reaches the top through three scissors, the knife-bearer opens the sky lock(天锁), takes out the grains and flowers and spreads them to the boiling crowd, and puts the red silk ribbon ,which is on the colored door, on his body, he sang the old prayer song, then,he came down from the knife pole in turn. After that, he stepped barefoot into the burning charcoal fire, licked the burning plough with the tip of his tongue, and bit the burning iron chain with his teeth, which showed the Lisu  ethnic national spirit and superb performance skills.

Keep Reading

• Yunnan Intangible Cultural Heritages
• Yunnan National ICH
• National Inheritors of ICH
• Yunnan Provincial ICH
• Provincial Inheritors of ICH
• Protection Base of Yunan ICH
• Yunnan Ethnic Culture
• Yunnan Ethnic Festivals
• Traditional Ethnic Villages in Yunnan
• Yunnan Ethnic Minorities

Basic Introduction of the Festival

Chinese Name:傈僳族火把节
English Name:Torch Festival of Lisu Ethnic Minority

Every ethnic group has its own traditional festivals with unique characteristics. The Torch Festival is an ancient and important traditional festival of the Lisu ethnic group, rich in folk culture. On this day, local people gather together to celebrate by worshipping and lighting torches, and performing torch dances, all to wish for an abundant harvest and prosperous livestock.

The Torch Festival is a traditional festival of the Dehong Lisu people, celebrated on the 24th and 25th days of the sixth month of the lunar calendar each year. Celebrating the Torch Festival with the Lisu people is filled with special charm; on this day, the village is lively and bustling. People dress in festive attire, families reunite, pigs are slaughtered, sheep are butchered, and everyone engages in lively conversation while enjoying water liquor, singing and dancing, with everyone discussing unity and each household offering blessings to one another.

On this day, as the birds return to their nests and the sun sets behind the mountains, people light their torches, moving from house to house and from yard to yard, chasing away pests. The torches are waved side to side and danced up and down. Elders recite as they move the torches: ‘Burn the fleas, burn the mice, burn the demons, burn away all harmful insects!…’ Then the elders take their torches to the fruit trees, chanting: ‘Bloom! Bear fruit! Let the people harvest!’ Everyone echoes, ‘Bloom! Bear fruit! Let flowers and fruits cover the mountains, let grain fill the granaries!’

As night falls and the fire pits are brightly lit, people joyfully dance the lusheng (bamboo pipe) dance and the sanxian (three-stringed lute) dance. Holding hands warmly, they participate in jumping games and sing the folk narrative long poem called “Torch Festival Tune.” This tune is also known as the ‘Half-Year Production Tune,’ summarizing the production experiences of the past half year. By this time, crops such as buckwheat and potatoes have ripened and been harvested. People sing to celebrate the harvest, dancing joyfully, often until dawn.

Local Activities

1. Gathering and Preparations

• Family Reunions: The festival is a time when families come together, reinforcing familial bonds. People dress in traditional attire to celebrate.
• Feasting: Families prepare festive meals, which may include special dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients. Pork, lamb, and other meats are often prepared for communal feasts.

2. Worship and Rituals

• Torch Lighting Ceremonies: The festival begins with the lighting of torches, symbolizing the warding off of pests and evil spirits. This is typically done in the evening as the sun sets.
• Offering Prayers: Elders and community leaders may lead prayers to deities and ancestors, asking for blessings for a fruitful harvest and prosperity in the coming year.

3. Dancing and Singing

• Torch Dance: One of the highlights of the festival is the torch dance. Participants often swing and wave torches while dancing, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
• Traditional Songs: People sing folk songs, including the well-known “Torch Festival Tune,” which summarizes agricultural experiences and aspirations for the upcoming harvest.

4. Games and Competitions

• Cultural Games: Various games and contests, such as tug-of-war, jumping games, and other traditional sports, are organized. These activities promote camaraderie and friendly competition among participants.
• Lusheng Festival: In some areas, performances featuring the lusheng (a traditional bamboo musical instrument) take place, allowing the youth to showcase their musical talents.

5. Torch Processions

• Torch Parade: Communities may organize procession events where people carry torches through the village, symbolically driving away misfortune and celebrating unity.
• Waving Torches: As part of the procession, participants may wave their torches in rhythmic movements, exhibiting coordinated dances.

6. Community Bonding

• Blessing Exchange: Households exchange blessings with one another, emphasizing themes of unity and goodwill.
• Storytelling: Elders share folk tales and stories about the origins of the village or cultural legends, educating younger generations about their heritage.

7. Harvest Celebration

• Celebrating the Bounty: The festival marks the successful conclusion of the harvest season. People celebrate by showcasing their haul of crops, such as buckwheat or potatoes, often sharing their yield with the community.

Location

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Weather Conditions

Best Time to Visit

• Season: The best time to visit is from May to October. This period coincides with the rainy season in Lijiang, when the vegetation around Yulong Reservoir is lush and green, the reservoir is full of water, and the scenery is particularly beautiful. Wildflowers bloom all over the mountains, adding a touch of vibrant color to the whole area.
• Specific Time: If you plan to hike or climb, it is recommended to start in the morning when you are energetic and the weather is relatively stable. For sightseeing, the afternoon is ideal, as the soft light provides a great visual experience whether you are admiring the shimmering water of the reservoir or looking out over the vast plateau of Lijiang. If you plan to have a picnic on the mountain top, be sure to plan your time well to avoid being caught in the dark.

Recommended Attractions

Yulong Reservoir

Surrounding Hiking Trails

• Yulong Snow Mountain First Peak Hiking Trail: Starting from Yulong Reservoir, this is an excellent starting point for climbing the first peak of Yulong Snow Mountain. The trail has a total elevation drop of about 1,000 meters and offers stunning views of the majestic snow mountain, unique alpine meadows, and diverse alpine vegetation. However, this route is challenging and requires good physical fitness and outdoor experience. It is recommended to go with a professional guide.
• Yulong Village – Yulong Reservoir Hiking Trail: Starting from Yulong Village at the foot of the mountain, it takes about two hours to reach Yulong Reservoir, with an elevation drop of 600 meters. Along the way, you can enjoy the perfect combination of pastoral and forest scenery, experiencing the tranquility of nature. After arriving at the reservoir, you can choose to return the same way or continue hiking to Wenhai for further exploration.
• Small Hilltop Stroll Trail: After crossing the reservoir dam, you can start climbing the small hill. The elevation drop is about 150 meters, and the hilltop is at an altitude of around 3,400 meters. From here, you can see the shimmering Yulong Reservoir on one side and the vast Lijiang Plateau on the other, with a distant view of Yuhu Village (玉湖村). Although the path is rugged, the beautiful scenery at the top is worth the effort. The hilltop has a wide view and is an ideal place for a picnic.

Transportation Guide

By Car

By Taxi

By Public Transport

Food Recommendations

 Baisha Ancient Town Cuisine

• Naxi Roast Pork: This is a traditional Naxi dish, made by marinating fresh pork belly and roasting it over charcoal. The skin is crispy and golden, while the inside is tender and juicy, not greasy. It tastes wonderful with the special dipping sauce. You can find this dish in many restaurants in Baisha Ancient Town.
• Chicken Bean Jelly: A local specialty of Lijiang, it is made from chicken beans. The jelly is black and has a smooth texture, which can be served cold or pan-fried. The cold version is mixed with soy sauce, vinegar, chili oil, and Sichuan pepper oil, giving it a tangy and spicy flavor. The pan-fried version has a crispy outer layer and soft interior, with a unique taste.
• Naxi Rice Sausage: Made by mixing glutinous rice and rice, adding spices and pig’s blood, and then stuffing the mixture into pig intestines and steaming it. The rice sausage is soft and fragrant, with a blend of rice and meat flavors and is nutritious. When eating, you can cut it into small pieces and dip it in sauce.

 Picnic Food Preparation

Shopping Recommendations

Baisha Ancient Town Souvenirs

• Dongba Paper: Dongba paper is a traditional Naxi handmade paper made from the bark of the Daphne plant using ancient techniques. The paper is strong and resistant to insect damage, with a long shelf life. It usually features beautiful Dongba characters or patterns, making it valuable for both art and collection.
• Naxi Embroidery: With a long history, Naxi embroidery is characterized by delicate stitching and bright colors. The embroidery themes include flowers, birds, figures, and landscapes, each piece reflecting the cultural essence and ethnic charm of the Naxi people. You can buy embroidered handkerchiefs, bags, and accessories as souvenirs.
• Wood Carving Crafts: Lijiang’s wood carving is exquisite, using high-quality wood to carve various lifelike patterns and shapes. There are many types of wood carvings, including pendants, ornaments, and furniture, which are both practical and decorative. They are great for personal collection or as gifts for friends and family.

Accommodation Suggestions

Accommodation in Baisha Ancient Town

Accommodation in Lijiang City

One-Day Itinerary Plans

Leisurely and Relaxing Itinerary

• Morning: Set off from Baisha Ancient Town by taxi or car to Yulong Reservoir. Upon arrival, take a walk around the reservoir to enjoy the beautiful lake and mountain views and take photos.
• Midday: Have a picnic on the hilltop near the reservoir, savoring delicious food while admiring the magnificent surroundings.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll along the small trail near the reservoir to a nearby hilltop, enjoying the scenery and relaxing. Afterwards, return to Baisha Ancient Town to wander around, taste local delicacies, and purchase souvenirs.

Hiking Challenge Itinerary

• Morning: Start hiking from Yulong Village along the Yulong Village – Yulong Reservoir trail, enjoying the pastoral and forest scenery along the way. It will take about two hours to reach Yulong Reservoir.
• Midday: Take a short break near Yulong Reservoir to rest and refuel with a simple trail meal.
• Afternoon: Set off from Yulong Reservoir and follow the trail to climb the first peak of Yulong Snow Mountain for a while (decide the distance according to your physical condition and pay attention to safety). Afterwards, return to Yulong Reservoir and choose to take transportation or continue hiking back to Yulong Village to end the trip.

Basic Introduction

• Chinese Name: 哈尼族米索扎节
• English Name: Misuozha Festival of Hani Ethnic Minority

As the festival approaches, the men, women, and children of the Bukun people are all smiles, and everyone changes into festive attire. The young women are particularly eye-catching, dressed in dark blue cloth adorned with embroidered floral patterns in red and green silk threads. A bundle of bright red thread is tied within their headscarves, extending towards their rosy cheeks. They wear garments decorated with silver beads, with an octagonal silver pendant in the center, resembling a blooming white lotus flower. It is said to bring good fortune and ward off disasters! Their lower legs are tightly wrapped in dark blue cloth, fastened with red pom-poms made of yarn.

Festival Customs

On the first day of “Misoza,” at dawn, every household makes rice dumplings (tangyuan) and pounded rice cakes. The sound of pounding rice, “kōng tōng, kōng tōng,” echoes throughout the village. After eating the dumplings and rice cakes, everyone begins to slaughter pigs, chickens, and ducks…

At noon, when the bright sun casts golden light over Bukun village, young men chop six bamboo poles. In an open area at the village entrance, they set up four poles in an equilateral shape, and use two bamboo sticks to form an “X” to serve as crossbeams, with a rope hanging down from the center. A seat cushion is added at the bottom, creating a “swing.” Then, a grand swinging ceremony is held. The host of the ceremony is called the “Moba,” who is elected by the community. The qualifications for a Moba are quite high: they must be over fifty years old, have grandchildren, and be hard-working and frugal. Those with an abnormal death in the family or individuals who are widowed, alone, or lazy cannot be elected.

The ceremony begins with the Moba holding a bowl of glutinous rice dumplings known as “three white and three black” (the black ones are covered in black sesame) and chanting blessings such as “Li na shi mi hei yi ba,” while tossing the black dumplings onto the grass to signify bidding farewell to the old and welcoming the new. He then recites another set of blessings, hoping for the arrival of the New Year. Subsequently, the village guns are fired in unison, and the manggu (a type of drum) sounds, while the Moba pushes the swing ropes upward three times. Everyone, young and old, participates in swinging, as it is said that swinging can ward off disasters and prolong life. Who wouldn’t want such benefits? On the last day of the festival, the Moba repeats the blessings spoken at the beginning, pushes the swing ropes down three times, and cuts the swing rope with a knife, signifying a victorious conclusion. Then, the village youth and children beat drums and gongs as they run to celebrate at each household…

In the evening, a bonfire is lit on the lawn, and everyone brings out tables laden with wine, meat, and fruits. The elders sit on the ground and perform the Alachu (a type of dance), while people dance, sing, and watch, celebrating until dawn, without a moment of sleep.

Overview of the Festival

• Chinese Name: 哈尼族苗爱拿节
• English Name: Miaoaina Festival of Hani Ethnic Minority

The Miaoaina Festival (also known as the Miao Festival) is one of the most important traditional celebrations of the Hani ethnic minority, primarily residing in the Yunnan Province of China. This festival is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Hani people and is celebrated with enthusiasm, showcasing their customs, traditions, and spirituality. Here’s an introduction to the Miaoaina Festival:

Cultural Significance

The Miaoaina Festival is primarily a harvest festival, marking the end of the agricultural season. It is a time for the Hani people to express gratitude for the bountiful harvest, celebrate their cultural identity, and strengthen community bonds. The festival also serves as an occasion for various traditional activities, including rituals and performances that reflect the Hani’s beliefs and customs.

Timing of the Festival

The Miaoaina Festival is generally held in the lunar month of August, coinciding with the harvest season of crops such as rice and corn. The specific dates can vary each year based on the lunar calendar.

Main Activities and Customs

1. Preparation and Offerings: Before the festival, families prepare various traditional foods, including rice dumplings, meat, and vegetables. Offerings are made to ancestors and deities, expressing thanks and seeking blessings for future prosperity.
2. Ritual Ceremonies: The festival begins with ceremonial activities led by village elders and spiritual leaders. These may include prayers, sacrifices, and other rites to honor ancestors and agricultural deities.

1. Traditional Clothing and Adornments: Participants often dress in colorful traditional attire, adorned with intricate embroidery and silver jewelry. This clothing showcases the unique artistry and cultural heritage of the Hani people.
2. Dancing and Singing: The Miaoaina Festival features vibrant performances, including traditional dances and songs. Participants may join in group dances, often accompanied by drums and other musical instruments, celebrating their cultural legacy and community spirit.
3. Games and Competitions: Various competitions and games, such as traditional sports, are organized to promote camaraderie and community interaction. These activities are often filled with laughter and friendly rivalry.
4. Feasting: A highlight of the festival is the communal feasts, where families and friends gather to enjoy traditional Hani dishes. The sharing of food symbolizes unity and community ties.
5. Cultural Exhibitions: The festival may include showcases of traditional crafts, including weaving and pottery, allowing local artisans to demonstrate their skills and preserve their cultural heritage.

Basic Introduction

• Chinese Name: 大理洱海开海节
• English Name: Kaihai Festival (Kaihaijie) or Erhai Lake Fishing Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority

The Kaihai Festival is a lively representation of the cultural heritage and community spirit of the Bai ethnic minority. It is not only a celebration of the fishing season and the natural bounty of Erhai Lake but also a time for strengthening social bonds and preserving cultural traditions. The festival serves as a reminder of the Bai people’s enduring relationship with their environment, their customs, and their vibrant community life. In addition to its cultural significance, the Kaihai Festival also attracts tourists and visitors, allowing for cultural exchange and promoting the beauty of the Bai culture and Yunnan Province.

Cultural Significance

The Kaihai Festival is primarily a harvest festival that marks the beginning of the fishing season on Erhai Lake. It is a time for the Bai people to express their gratitude for the bounty of the lake and to pray for good catches in the coming year. The festival embodies the community spirit and rich cultural heritage of the Bai people, illustrating their way of life and relationship with the surrounding environment.

Timing of the Festival

The Kaihai Festival is typically held in the lunar month of April or May, coinciding with the spring season when fishing activities begin to increase on Erhai Lake.

Main Activities and Customs

1. Cleansing Rituals: The festival often starts with cleansing rituals to purify the lake and pay homage to water deities. Local fishermen perform ceremonies to ask for blessings for a successful fishing season.
2. Fishing Competitions: The highlight of the festival is the fishing competitions, where locals and visitors participate in friendly contests to catch fish. These competitions celebrate traditional fishing techniques and the skills of the Bai fishermen.
3. Traditional Clothing: Participants often wear colorful traditional Bai attire, showcasing the unique embroidery and craftsmanship of the Bai ethnic culture. The clothing also reflects their cultural identity and pride.
4. Cultural Performances: The festival features various cultural performances, including traditional Bai dance and music. Local artists may perform folk songs, showcasing the rich oral traditions of the Bai people, with vibrant and lively performances that engage festival-goers.
5. Feasting: The Kaihai Festival is also a time for communal feasting. Locals prepare traditional dishes, particularly those using freshly caught fish. The sharing of meals symbolizes unity and reinforces community bonds.
6. Artisan Exhibitions: The festival may include exhibitions of Bai crafts, such as weaving, embroidery, and pottery. These displays highlight the artistic talents of the Bai people and promote the preservation of their cultural heritage.
7. Games and Activities: Various games and activities might take place, including traditional sports that encourage community participation and interaction among attendees.

Overview

• Chinese Name: 元阳县哈尼族姑娘节
• English Name: Girls Festival (Guniangjie) of Hani Ethnic Minority
• Location: 元阳县攀枝花乡碧播村碧播山/Bibo Mountain, Bibo Village, Panzhihua Township, Yuanyang County

The Girls Festival, known as Guniangjie, is an important cultural celebration for the Hani ethnic minority in Yuanyang County. This vibrant festival is primarily dedicated to young women and holds significant cultural and social importance. The Girls Festival (Guniangjie) is a vibrant and culturally rich celebration for the Hani ethnic minority in Yuanyang County. Through its traditional activities and communal participation, it fosters a sense of identity, heritage, and social bonding among the young people of the Hani community.

Origins

Guniangjie, or the Girls Festival, has historical roots that date back centuries within the Hani culture. Traditionally celebrated by Hani girls and women, the festival marks the coming of age for young girls and serves as a platform for them to showcase their beauty, talents, and potential for future marriages. It is believed to also have connections to ancient agricultural rites, celebrating the fertility of the land and the community. The festival occurs on the 15th day of the third month of the lunar calendar.

Significance

1. Cultural Identity: Guniangjie serves as a celebration of Hani cultural identity, allowing the community to honor their traditions, languages, and local customs. It plays a crucial role in the preservation of Hani heritage.
2. Coming of Age: The festival signifies the transition of young girls into womanhood. It is a time for celebration and recognition of their maturity, beauty, and readiness for societal roles, including marriage.
3. Social Interaction: Guniangjie provides an opportunity for social interaction among the youth, facilitating connections between young men and women in the community. It fosters relationships and may lead to future marriages.

Local Activities

1. Dressing in Traditional Attire: Young girls and women wear colorful, ornate traditional costumes adorned with intricate embroidery, beads, and silver jewelry. The attire reflects their cultural identity and serves to highlight their beauty during the festivities.
2. Dances and Songs: Traditional Hani dances and songs play a central role in the celebration. Participants often perform group dances in a joyful and vibrant manner, showcasing their cultural heritage and artistic expression.
3. Competitions: The festival often features various competitions, such as beauty contests, singing, and dancing competitions, where young women display their talents. These events serve as a platform for young women to gain recognition within the community.
4. Games and Sports: Traditional games and sports are also a part of the festivities. These might include activities like tug-of-war, footraces, and other fun competitions that involve both young men and women, promoting camaraderie and healthy competition.
5. Feasting: Community feasts are an integral part of the festival, where families and friends gather to share traditional Hani dishes. The sharing of food symbolizes unity and community spirit.
6. Cultural Exhibitions: Local artisans and craftsmen may display their handicrafts and goods during the festival, providing visitors with the opportunity to engage with Hani culture and support local creativity.

Overview and Lengend of the Festival

• Chinese Name: 哈尼族捉蚂蚱节
• English Name: Grasshopper Catching (Zhuomazha) Festival of Hani Ethnic Minority in Lvchun County, Honghe
• Location: Lcchun County, Honghe

The Grasshopper Catching Festival is a traditional holiday of the Hani ethnic group in the vicinity of Luxi County, celebrated on the first day of the Rooster or Monkey in the lunar calendar after the 24th day of the sixth lunar month. It symbolizes the elimination of pests and the prayer for abundant harvests.

In Hani language, the Grasshopper Catching Festival is called “Abao Nian” and is held on the first Rooster or Monkey day after the “lunar June year” (the 24th day of the sixth lunar month).

Origin of the Festival: The Hani people live in mountainous areas and plant a season of rice. After the “lunar June year,” rice begins to head out, and to ensure a bountiful harvest, the Hani people engage in the “Grasshopper Catching Festival” to drive away and prevent pest infestations.

On “Grasshopper Catching Festival” day, everyone in the village, young and old, goes to the fields to catch grasshoppers. Each household aims to catch enough for one bamboo basket (about two pounds); after catching them, the grasshoppers are divided into four piles: one for the heads, one for the legs, one for the bodies, and one for the wings. These piles are then skewered with split bamboo strips and placed along the ridges and drainage ditches to scare off any grasshoppers and other insects yet to be caught. After half an hour, these grasshoppers are collected back into bamboo tubes and taken home as food or mixed with rice cakes. It is said that grasshopper meat is very sweet.

As people leave the fields, they loudly shout, “Hey, grasshoppers, we won’t catch you for three days, and you shouldn’t eat rice for three months!”

The Local Activities

1. Catch Grasshoppers:

• Community Participation: On the day of the festival, men, women, and children gather in the fields to catch grasshoppers. This is a communal activity, emphasizing unity and cooperation among villagers.
• Methods of Catching: Participants use simple tools like bamboo sticks or nets to catch the grasshoppers, often sharing tips on the best spots to find them.

2. Dividing and Displaying:

• Once enough grasshoppers are caught, each household divides their catch into specific piles: heads, legs, bodies, and wings.
• These are then skewered with bamboo pieces and displayed along the field ridges and drainage

The Basic Introduction of the Festival

Chinese Name: 哈尼族里玛主节/黄饭节/开秧门节
English Name: Limazhu Festival of Hani Ethnic Minority

The Lijia (Li Mazu) Festival is a traditional holiday of the Hani ethnic group, celebrated in each year during the blooming of camellias in the sunny month of March. The Hani people living by the banks of the Honghe River have a deep affection for the cuckoo bird, which they refer to as “Habo Amama” (Cuckoo Mother).

The term “Li Mazu” comes from the Hani language and means “the grand gathering of spring.” It is also known as the Huangfan Festival or the Opening Rice Seedling Gate Festival, and is a traditional holiday of the Hani people in the Honghe region of Yunnan, held on the day of the Goat in the lunar calendar, lasting for one day. This festival is closely related to the Hani people’s admiration for the cuckoo bird.

The Hani people worship the cuckoo and respectfully call the spring-singing cuckoo “Hebo Amama” (Cuckoo Mother). When the camellias bloom, anyone who hears the cuckoo’s call for the first time is expected to respond with “I heard it!” to celebrate the arrival of spring. Folklore holds that this response can ensure a bountiful harvest and prosperous livestock for the year, along with safety and good health.

Each year, upon hearing the call of “Hebo Amama,” villages traditionally prepare fine wines and delicious dishes on the Goat day (according to the twelve zodiac animals). They also go into the mountains to pick flowers from a certain tree, extract the flower juice, and soak glutinous rice in it. This results in fragrant steamed glutinous rice and boiled red eggs, which are offered to the cuckoo. After that, villagers gather at the hilltops to sing and dance. Men also engage in wrestling, characterized by moves such as waist grabs, leg tackles, underarms, and leg passes, typically contested in a best-of-three format, with the first to touch both shoulders to the ground being the loser.

The origin of the “Li Mazu” festival is rooted in a legend that recounts how, in ancient times, the cuckoo was dispatched by the heavenly deities to bring the message of spring from afar. As it flew over the ocean, it grew exhausted and was about to fall into the sea. Suddenly, a dragon’s tail emerged, transforming into a great tree, where the cuckoo stopped to rest. Despite facing numerous hardships, the cuckoo successfully brought the news of spring to the human world. The Hani people then planted their spring crops on time as a result of this message, which led to a fruitful harvest. In honor of the cuckoo’s contributions, the festival evolved into a celebrated ethnic holiday over time.

The Local Activities

1. Grasshopper Catching

• Community Gathering: Villagers, including men, women, and children, come together in the fields to catch grasshoppers, a central activity of the festival.
• Techniques and Tools: Participants use simple homemade tools, such as bamboo sticks or nets, to catch grasshoppers. Experienced individuals often share tips and tricks for a successful catch.

2. Celebratory Cooking

• After catching grasshoppers, families prepare traditional dishes featuring their catch. This may include various methods of cooking the grasshoppers, such as frying or stewing, often paired with rice or other staple foods.

3. Cultural Performances

• Songs and Dances: The festival is a time for cultural expression, with villagers performing traditional songs and dances. These performances may include storytelling through dance, often depicting elements of Hani folklore.
• Wrestling Matches: Men participate in friendly wrestling competitions, showcasing traditional wrestling techniques and fostering community spirit.

4. Ritual Offerings

• In honor of the cuckoo bird, which holds a special place in Hani culture, offerings may be made to ensure good fortune and a prosperous harvest. This could involve preparing symbolic foods or conducting rituals to celebrate the arrival of spring.

5. Community Feasting

• At the end of the day, villagers come together for communal meals, sharing the food they have prepared. This fosters a sense of community and strengthens social bonds among participants.

6. Nature Appreciation

• The festival coincides with the blooming of local flowers, and villagers often take time to appreciate and enjoy the beauty of nature. This may include hiking in the surrounding areas or engaging in other outdoor activities.

7. Traditional Games and Competitions

• Various games and competitions may take place, encouraging friendly rivalry among different families or clans. These can include races, skill contests, and other fun activities.

8. Storytelling and Folklore Sharing

• Elders often recount legends and folk stories related to the festival, the harvest, and the importance of the cuckoo bird in Hani culture, helping to pass down traditions and values to younger generations.

Basic Introduction

Chinese Name: 哈尼族苦扎扎节
English Name: Kuzhazha Festival (Liuyuenian) of Hani Ethnic Minority

The Ku Zhazha Festival, also known as the “June Year,” is celebrated in mid-June every year according to the lunar calendar. It is a grand traditional festival of the Hani people in Honghe, and it is as lively and grand as the Spring Festival celebrated by the Han ethnic group.

Elderly people gather in the open space to drink and have fun, while children chase each other and play. Young people form circles to perform traditional dances such as the fan dance, bamboo pole dance, and music and dance performances. The sounds of gongs and drums, the strings of musical instruments, and cheers interweave and echo through the mountains, marking the beginning of an all-night celebration.

The Ku Zhazha Festival, also known as the “June Year,” is celebrated in mid-June every year according to the lunar calendar. It is a grand traditional festival of the Hani people in Honghe, lively and grand like the Spring Festival celebrated by the Han ethnic group. During this time, Hani villages are filled with excitement and bustling energy. People dress in colorful festive attire and gather in groups at the celebration grounds to enjoy games and entertainment, joyfully celebrating the festival.

Festival Customs

According to Hani customs, the autumn grinding pole must be cut down at night, and young men carry it back before dawn. They sing mountain songs as they transport the hard and durable wooden pole to the festival grounds at the edge of the village. They plant one end of the pole into the ground, tapering the top to create an axis, and then hollow out the long horizontal pole to place on top. The horizontal beams on both sides must be of equal length and smoothed out to prevent injuries.

In the afternoon, Hani people dressed in vibrant clothing gather closely at the grinding ground. Following the Hani tradition of respecting elders, a few respected elders begin the grinding ceremony. After symbolically throwing the pole a few times, pairs of young men and women take turns to spin. The autumn grinding is a fun athletic activity for the Hani people, requiring equal numbers on both sides. Those riding on the pole push off the ground with their feet, sometimes spinning rapidly and sometimes rising and falling, rotating back and forth. As the pole swing speeds up, the spectators become increasingly joyful, occasionally shouting “Oh ho ho, oh ho ho!” to cheer, creating a lively atmosphere. The skilled and daring young men often become the objects of admiration for the young women.

As the sun sets, a series of clear gunshots sound from the grinding ground, signaling people to come and sing and dance. Young couples who had hidden in the woods to flirt gather together, and older people and children also arrive. The elders sit together to drink and enjoy themselves, children chase each other and play, while young people form circles to perform fan dances, bamboo pole dances, and musical performances. The sounds of gongs and drums, the strings of instruments, and cheers intertwine and echo through the mountains, marking the beginning of an all-night celebration.

Chinese Name: 哈尼族新米节
English Name: New Rice Festival (Xinmijie) of Hani Ethnic Minority

The New Rice Festival is a traditional agricultural festival among the Hani people. Known as “Chi Xin Mi Fan” in Hani language, it is also called “Che Shi Zha” in Honghe Prefecture, translated as the New Rice Festival in Chinese. In some places, it’s referred to as “Ka Nu Chou Ye” or “Yue Pu Mo Qie.” It is held annually in the eighth lunar month when the rice fields turn a purplish color with the ripening of the rice grains.

The Hani people celebrate this festival on a selected auspicious day, often choosing a dragon day because in Hani language, “dragon” signifies “increasing” and “adding.”

On the morning of the festival day, each household head goes to the edge of the rice fields and selects a tall, well-formed rice ear. They pluck a small amount of rice grains, wrap them in tree leaves, and hang them in the fields to symbolize abundant harvests. They also take a handful of rice ears back home to shell into new rice, which is cooked into new rice dishes and served alongside new rice wine. The village leaders or relatives are invited to the feast.

During the festivities, they also pop some of the new rice into popcorn. Before dinner, every family offers new rice and rice popcorn to their ancestors and feeds rice popcorn to their dogs.

According to legends, in ancient times, all crops were washed away during a great flood. After the waters receded, a small bird found a rice ear and was about to peck it when a dog scared away the bird and retrieved the grain. This marked the re-establishment of rice cultivation among the people. Therefore, during the New Rice Festival, it’s customary to first offer rice to the dogs. Another legend tells of a heavenly maiden, Ema, who secretly brought rice seeds to earth and taught the Hani people how to cultivate them. In anger, the heavenly gods punished her by turning her into a dog, but the Hani people honor her contributions every year during this festival.

After the rituals are completed, family members and guests enjoy a hearty meal of rice dishes and new rice wine. It is believed that the more they eat, the fuller they become, ensuring that the rice grains will be plump and plentiful during the autumn harvest. After the New Rice Festival, the Hani people begin their harvest season using sickles.

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