"A mountain has four seasons and a hundred miles have different customs."
Once in Yunnan, it is a fascinating journey to learn all about the cultures and traditions of the various ethnic groups living in the province. Let's take a look at the different customs of the Spring Festival, that celebrates the arrival of the new year.
During the Spring Festival, the Yi people usually mark it by dancing, by taking part in the ”Da San Xiang” jump, as well as enjoying wrestling, bullfighting and having fun around the bonfire all night long.
In some villages, men take the lead on the first day of the new year. They are responsible for fetching water and cooking, allowing women to rest and expressing their gratitude for all that they do throughout the year.
On New Year's Eve, Hani women are busy making Ciba (Rice Cake), while Hani men cut bamboo and set up swings. On the Hani New Year's Day, every family will cook and then sit around two tables in the village, with several dishes and wine available.
Everyone dines together, a ritual known as the Hani Long Dragon Banquet or the Long Street Banquet.
Naxi women sleep until late on the first day of the New Year, while men get up early to prepare breakfast.
On New Year's Eve, the Buyi people stay up all night to celebrate.
The morning after, on the first day of the New Year, women rush to the well to pick "New Year water", also known locally as "smart water".
With plenty of ethnic minorities in Yunnan, the Spring Festival is a rare opportunity to witness different traditions at the same time. Come to Yunnan to enjoy an experience of a lifetime.