Ethnographic research in Guizhou

Author: Wang Shizhong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-06-01
Features: Compared to the beauty of Jiangnan, the grandeur of the northern grasslands, the vastness of Tibet, and the scenic mountains and rivers of Guizhou, this place is distinguished by its mountains, waters, caves, and waterfalls. Could it be the work of divine wind and water that has sculpted this magnificent miniature landscape? Among the extraordinary peaks and gorges, thousands of waterfalls cascade gracefully; countless underground rivers and caves store unparalleled underground art treasures; crossing the world's largest Liling Natural Bridge and venturing into the "National River of China" Ma Ling River Gorge; the Mirror-like Wuyang River reflects the graceful charm of the "Miao Woman Carrying a Basket"; the "Ten Thousand Volumes of Scriptures" on Mount Fanjing is a dream that no one can decipher; in the depths of Wumeng, a vast grass sea is home to cranes dancing gracefully, sandpipers taking flight, and flocks of wild geese; the Chishui River is fragrant with blossoms, and the battle trenches of Loushan Pass remain, while a hundred miles of azaleas bloom in spring. Opening the "living dictionary" of Chinese ethnic art, the ethnic minorities living in this landscape of ink and wash paintings celebrate their festivals—great ones every third, sixth, or ninth day of the lunar month, and small ones every day. The majestic drum towers and charming corridor bridges; the resounding bronze drums and the melodious sound of the reed pipes. The ancient and profound folk customs are like sweet and mellow rice wine, attracting the amazed footsteps of distant visitors. In this land of natural beauty, they lose themselves in a drunken pursuit.