Living in some of the most unreachable areas of southern China, a low-key ethnic group carries a big weight in the fashion world. Each year, with a 3000-year-old craftsmanship, the artisans there handcraft a small batch of top quality silver jewelry for the world’s brightest fashion stars.
Of all the festivals, there are two that are probably the most unique: the Hua Shan Festival and the New Year Festival.
The people is Miao. And their New Year Festival celebration is somewhere you will never see elsewhere.
A thorough house-cleaning officially kicks off Miao’s preparation work for the new year. Pork is pickled, rice wine brewed, and bean curb made.
As the new year comes close, the Miaos get busy preparing the food for the big celebration. Pork sausages are pickled, rice wines brewed, bean curd made, glutinous rice balls steamed, snacks fried, and dried fruits purchased.
As the day breaks, the village head summons everyone for the banquet. Tables are set one next to another on the main road of the village. Sometimes, it extends as long as a mile.
And it’s a celebration in the form of banquet, large banquet, one that is unseen anywhere else in the world.
In the banquet, people give wishes to neighbors and hope for a very happy new year.
If the New Year is a time of wishing, then the Hua Shan Festival must be a occasion of giving. Giving the best out of you!
If the New Year Festival is a time of wishing, then the Hua Shan Festival coming each August must be a time of seeking love.
On the day, a 30 meter high ladder is set up vertically. On the top is a pouch with reward inside. He who uses the minimum of time wins the prize.
In the festival, the game of ‘Knife Mountain Climbing’ is played. A ladder 25 meters in height is erected. The rungs are made of sharp knives with edges pointing upward. Players of this game must climb the ladder barefooted.
Miao women stand on open ground nearby to watch. It’s a big day for them, too. Some of the girls find their Prince Charming in the festival.
And to win the heart of his dear one, a contestant gives his best out. To do so, some fancy acrobatic moves are necessary.
D. Cheng enjoys sharing his knowledge of Chinese silver jewelry. To discover handmade silver jewels by the Miao tribe, visit his website about Chinese silver jewelry here.