Longji Rice Terraces celebrate centuries-old Spring Plowing Ceremony

The ancient Zhuang village along Guilin's famed Longji Rice Terraces burst into life on May 2 as locals and tourists gathered for the annual Spring Ploughing Ceremony, a millennia-old tradition honoring the land and ushering in the spring farming season.

The grand occasion of the Longji Spring Plowing Ceremony. [Photo/Guilin Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television and Tourism]

The celebrations began with a grand welcoming ceremony featuring spirited dragon dances, resonant suona horns and Zhuang and Yao women in traditional attire offering homemade rice wine to arriving guests.

The ritual centerpiece took place at a stunning scenic overlook, where village elders and a revered soothsayer gathered to honor the earth deity. They burned fragrant incense and chanted ancient blessings, seeking the deity's favor for good weather and a bountiful harvest.

A key moment came with the ceremonial opening of the water gates, releasing mountain springs that cascaded down the terraced fields. This joyful event marked the official start of land cultivation in Longji, symbolizing the community's unity and connection to their land as they prepared for the agricultural season ahead.

A Canadian visitor from Vancouver expressed deep appreciation for the festival's significance. "Celebrations like this are very touching. Preserving traditional farming methods is so important today, as we face ecological changes globally," she said, adding that she was eagerly anticipating the afternoon fish-catching activity.

Villagers and tourists enjoy fun agricultural activities in the terraced fields. [Photo/Guilin Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television and Tourism]

The post-ritual hours turned the terraces into a lively playground. Tourists and villagers rolled up their trousers to chase free-range chickens, scoop up ducks and catch fish in the muddy paddies – transforming ancient farmland into a joyful arena of laughter.

A specialty market showcasing local peppers, tea and traditional medicine, alongside herbal foot baths, offered a relaxed exploration, while a communal feast featuring slow-cooked chicken and five-colored glutinous rice capped the day's festivities.

The festival exemplifies how Longji preserves its agricultural heritage while embracing cultural tourism, resonating with visitors seeking authentic rural traditions.