Resplendent lanterns set Ningbo's Luocheng aglow

The lantern displays at the Changchun Gate of Luocheng in Ningbo. [Photo/cnnb.com.cn]

The historic gates of Ningbo's ancient Luocheng are once again dazzling with an enchanting lantern display that began on Jan 26.

This celebration will continue for a month and a half, with the lanterns lighting up the night sky every evening at 5:30 pm.

Luocheng, built during the Tang Dynasty (618-907), has played a major role in shaping Ningbo culture. Originally consisting of 10 gates, only six remain following their reconstruction in the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368): Dongdu Gate, Heyi Gate, Yongfeng Gate, Wangjing Gate, Changchun Gate, and Lingqiao Gate.

As the Year of the Snake approaches, the fusion of Luocheng's six gates with festive lanterns and spring couplets is filling the city with holiday cheer.

An official from Haishu district said, "Rejuvenating the six gates of Luocheng with lanterns is not only a celebration of Chinese New Year but also enhances cultural experiences and preserves the historical essence of Luocheng." 

The lantern displays at the Dongdu Gate of Luocheng in Ningbo. [Photo/cnnb.com.cn]