A Sea of People: Celebrating Lunar New Year Across China

Lunar New Year China
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A Sea of People: Celebrating Lunar New Year Across China

The Lunar New Year fills China with life, colour, and joy. Across the country, cities and scenic spots see huge crowds as locals and tourists gather to celebrate.

In Chongqing, Hongya Cave glows at night. Thousands of visitors throng the streets, enjoying the festive lights. Authorities close roads temporarily to ensure safety and improve the viewing experience.

Hongya Cave
At night, Hongya Cave glows with festive lights as crowds throng the area. During the Spring Festival holiday, the popular attraction in Chongqing’s Yuzhong District saw peak visitor numbers. (All photos courtesy of CNS)

In Shanghai, Yu Garden hosts its Lantern Festival. Visitors admire the intricate lanterns, a national intangible cultural heritage.

Yu Garden shanghai
Visitors admire the lantern displays at the Yu Garden Folk Art Lantern Festival.

In Nanxiong, Guangdong, the “Hundred Lions Parade” brings local lion dance traditions to life, delighting the crowds with music and movement.

Hundred Lions Celebrate the New Year
The “Hundred Lions Celebrate the New Year” event showcases local lion dance traditions.

Hukou Waterfall in Shanxi attracts many visitors eager to see the dramatic falls during the holiday.

Hukou Waterfall
Visitors enjoy the spectacular Hukou Waterfall in Jixian County, Shanxi Province.

In Situ Town, Shanxi, the “Thousand-Year Iron Soul” iron flower performance draws enthusiastic audiences, blending artistry with tradition.

iron flower performance
The “Thousand-Year Iron Soul” iron flower performance attracts many visitors.

In Xinqiao Town, Fujian, villagers and tourists watch the “Bench Dragon” dance. This 200-year-old tradition uses benches as the dragon’s spine, decorated with colourful lanterns, symbolising prayers for peace and prosperity.

Bench Dragon
Locals and tourists gather to watch the “Xinqiao Bench Dragon” dance.

Similarly, Wujiangzhai, Guizhou, hosts bench dragon performances as part of the “Village Fireworks Festival,” entertaining large crowds.

Bench Dragon
The Bench Dragon’s performance drew crowds during the Festival events, offering visitors a lively holiday experience.

In Luoyang, Henan, a Hanfu-wearing robot interacts with performers, combining tradition with modern technology.

robot
The Hanfu-wearing robots interact with performers.

In Yongding, Fujian, visitors explore the UNESCO-listed Tulou, experiencing Hakka traditions of family reunion and community.

Fujian Tulou
Tourists admire the Fujian Tulou and enjoy performances.

At Lam Tsuen Wishing Tree, Hong Kong, people hang prayer cards and toss offerings to welcome the new year. The tree is crowded with visitors amid festive decorations.

Lam Tsuen Wishing Tree
Visitors gather around the wishing tree, hanging prayer cards and tossing offerings to welcome the New Year. (Photo from HKCNA)

From bustling streets to scenic spots, China’s Lunar New Year is a spectacle of culture and celebration. Everywhere you look, there is a sea of people, sharing the joy of the season.

If you liked this article, why not read: First Incense of the Lunar New Year: A Tradition Lives On

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