Every year during the Lantern Festival, "Xing Tongji" (Crossing Tongji Bridge) is an unmissable tradition for the people of Foshan, Guangdong. Tens of thousands, sometimes even over a million participants, walk across Tongji Bridge, holding windmills and carrying lettuce—symbols of good fortune and prosperity.
Anna comes from Russia, a primary school art teacher in Foshan, experienced this 400-year-old folk tradition for the first time after a recommendation from her local friends. On Tongji Bridge, she excitedly said the slogan "Han Tong Zai, Mou Bai Ai" which means Crossing Tongji Bridge, troubles and worries will be left behind, bringing peace and good fortune for the year ahead.
Anna described the experience inspired her a lot, giving her a deep impression for the richness of Chinese traditions. She looks forward to participating in more local events and further immersing herself in the Foshan way of life.
