VAYA recently travelled to Longsheng, Guilin, Guangxi Province, to witness the Yao ethnic group celebrate their Red Clothes Festival, which takes place annually on the 15th day of the third month of the Chinese lunar year. The Yao people have a history that can be traced back 2000 years, and are currently one of 55 ethnic minority groups that are officially recognized by the People’s Republic of China.
During the festival local Yao girls wear their beautiful and eye catching hand-made red clothes, and more than a thousand local Yao people turn out to celebrate. The Yao ethnic people are known for their singing, dancing, and other folk activities such as the long-drum dance, village beauty contest, long-hair competition, tug-of-war, and more. Traditionally, these ‘competitions’ are more friendly than competitive, and give the local people an opportunity to get to know each other better. Of course the VAYA wasn’t going to miss the chance to celebrate such a wonderful experience!
Here are some of the best pics from our time in Guilin!
When we first arrived in Guilin we were greeted by the magnificent local topography. The cool mountain air was refreshing, peaceful and calm. Fair to say that calm was quickly overtaken by excitement as we rushed to the edge with cameras and phones to capture the beautiful moment.
Nestled among the mountains and valleys are many local village buildings.
As the women hold the red umbrellas men play the Suona, a traditional instrument commonly played at festivals, weddings and funerals.
In keeping with tradition, local Yao girls generally avoid scissors…
Feeling hungry? Here’s a tiny bowl of chicken soup!
After the soup we filled up on Zongzi, a traditional food made of rice stuffed with various fillings and wrapped in bamboo, reed, or other large flat leaves, which are then steamed or boiled.
We also got to try our hand at making rice cakes!
All in all it was a simply amazing day in Guilin and we highly recommend it to anyone looking for an authentic Chinese experience. And remember, this is only one of hundreds of Chinese experiences offered by local VAYA Hosts from cities, suburbs and villages throughout China!
VAYA! 