Marginal Tribe Ancient Style for a Thousand Years

Author: Yu Wei Ren
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-01-01
Features:
Bashalong, a Miao village nestled deep in the mountains of Congjiang County, Guizhou, like a green leaf, quietly rests in the towering peaks. Its unique customs attract visitors from all over: the rustic (upside-down house) lean against steep cliffs, and golden grain-drying racks stretch towards the sky. Men are always armed with fire guns and wear the "hòugùn" (a symbol of the sacredness of the settlement), which signifies the community's unity. Women weave cotton fabric and wear self-woven pleated skirts. Young people must undergo the joyful "bùdàng" (a coming-of-age ritual) to be considered adults, and during the "nàoguǐ" (a time for young lovers to meet), love songs often sing all night.
The village's festivals are vibrant and colorful: the Spring Festival, Miao New Year, the Azalea Festival, the New Rice Festival, and the Lusheng Festival follow one after another. Singers and lusheng (Miao musical instruments) masters showcase their talents, with the eye-catching Miao, Miao flute, and ox-leg zither playing melodiously. Men and women sing and dance joyfully, expressing their love for life with passion.