Miao People Celebrate Fenghuang County 'Jiong Culture' Festival

People from the Miao ethnic group from across the county, dressed in their traditional costumes, gathered to celebrate the "Jiong Culture" Festival at Laoyapo, Guanshangping Village, Qiangongping Town, Fenghuang County.

The event began with the "Ba Dai Xiong" of the Miao ethnic group, guiding participants to pray for blessings of harmony among the people, favorable weather, and a bumper harvest. Afterwards, over 50 performing troupes from across the county, dressed in their splendid attire, staged wonderful performances one after another. The folk programs feautred powerful dance dedicated to worshipping Chiyou, a majestic dragon dance, authentic folk dances, Miao martial arts performance, and melodious Miao songs. These performances were captivating and delighted the audience, showcasing the charm of rich ethnic culture to visitors from all around.

The Miao people regard Chiyou as their ancestor. The "Jiong" is also known as the "Chiyou Altar," which is typically set up on the highest peak near the village. The worship ceremony during the "Jiong Culture" Festival is a traditional ritual for Miao people in Fenghuang County to pay tribute to Chiyou. In 2023, the "Chiyou Altar and Chiyou Worship" ceremony, including related activities, was included in the provincial intangible cultural heritage list.

This article is from the Hunan Provincial Government www.enghunan.gov.cn.

Translator: Xiao Juan

Chinese source: Hunan Daily