With a horn blast from a boat decorated in Yao ethnic patterns, the 2025 "Travel with the Dance of the Yao People" series were officially launched in Liannan Yao Autonomous County, Qingyuan, recently.
Home to one of China's largest Yao communities, Liannan is the birthplace of Dance of the Yao People, one of the country's most famous instrumental compositions. The piece draws inspiration from the long drum dance, a traditional festival performance deeply rooted in Yao culture.
The county boasts rich cultural and tourist attractions, including three national 4A-level scenic areas, two national eco-parks, and five traditional Chinese villages. It also features 38 forms of intangible cultural heritage, including nationally recognized practices such as the Yao wedding ceremony, long drum dance, and the Shua Ge Tang communal singing ritual.
This year, Liannan will continue to spotlight Yao culture through immersive experiences across towns like Sanjiang, Damaishan, Daping, and Zhaigang. Upcoming highlights include Yao wedding tours, Cultural and Natural Heritage Day events, the Kaichang Festival, rice terrace cultural events, a ginkgo-viewing season, and the renowned Panwang Festival, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the enduring Yao culture.
Author | Huang Xinying
Photo | Nanfang Plus
Editor | Ouyang Yan, Wei Shen, James, Shen He
