Chuwa (Kaimen/Opening Door) Festival of Achang Ethnic Minority
Chinese Name:阿昌族出洼节/关门节
English Name: Chuwa (Kaimen/Opening Door) Festival of Achang Ethnic Minority
The Festival of Emerging from the Lowlands, also known as the “Opening Door Festival,” marks the end of a year-long period of religious seclusion in which people follow strict rules and abstain from worldly pleasures. During this time, they focus on spiritual growth and renewal. The festival lasts for three days and is held to celebrate the harvest and the beginning of a new agricultural cycle.
On the 15th day of the festival, young unmarried men carrying colored paper and playing elephant-foot drums parade through the village, while elderly people visit the Buddhist temple to burn incense and offer sacrifices to the Buddha. This symbolizes the Buddha’s emergence from his seclusion.
On the 16th day, a ceremony is held to officially release the Buddha from his seclusion. All unmarried girls are required to visit the temple to pay their respects to the Buddha.
On the 17th day, young men and women from different villages gather to listen to a sermon by the local Buddhist monk. After the sermon, people celebrate by singing, dancing, and congratulating each other. From this day on, young people are free to pursue romantic relationships and form partnerships.
