Miao, Dong people celebrate unique bridge festival

Jiyou village in Jianhe county, Qiandongnan Miao and Dong autonomous prefecture, is known by many for its ancient trees and Miao love songs.

The village is rich in Miao culture, with simple folk customs, lush greenery and a forest coverage rate of more than 90 percent. It was officially listed in the second group of Chinese traditional villages in August 2013.

A grand festival is held on the second day of the second lunar month — the Bridge Worship Festival. At this time, the ethnic Miao prepare food and wine and perform songs and dances.

Walking into Jiyou village during the festival, one can see villagers dressed in Miao costumes. Men hold Lusheng and flags, women carry baskets of wine and food and children are dressed in new outfits. All converge for the "bridge sacrifice" ceremony and celebrate under the leadership of village elders.

During the day, along with the lilting rhythm of the Lusheng, residents dance joyfully in the square, while tourists take photos and broadcast live to record the moment. At nightfall, villagers and tourists light a bonfire in the center of the square. By the light of the fire, they savor food and wine and enjoy the general atmosphere of friendship.