Guanyin Temple Fiar in Dali City

Festival Background

• Significance: The Guanyin Festival at Guanyin Pond is one of the most important traditional festivals in Dali Town, Yunnan Province. It is a significant religious, cultural, and commercial event for the local Bai ethnic group and other residents.
• Date: The festival is held on the 19th day of the 2nd, 6th, and 9th lunar months each year. The most important celebration takes place on the 19th day of the 2nd lunar month, which is believed to be the birthday of Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Mercy.

Key Activities

• Worship and Religious Ceremonies: Thousands of devotees gather at Guanyin Pond to pay homage to Guanyin. The temple is filled with the sound of chanting, the smell of incense, and the sight of worshippers offering prayers and making wishes.
• Cultural Performances: The festival features various cultural activities, including traditional Bai ethnic songs and dances, instrumental performances, and recitations of Buddhist scriptures by local “Lotus Pool Associations” (莲池会).
• Market and Trade: The festival also serves as a vibrant marketplace, with stalls selling clothing, handicrafts, local specialties, and a wide variety of traditional snacks. The atmosphere is lively, with people engaging in trade and socializing.
• Wild Cooking and Socializing: Villagers and visitors set up stoves and cook meals together in the fields and along the roads, creating a communal and festive atmosphere.

Cultural Significance

• Religious and Cultural Fusion: The Guanyin Festival is a unique blend of religious devotion and cultural celebration. It reflects the Bai people’s deep connection to Buddhism and their tradition of incorporating religious practices into daily life.
• Symbol of Compassion: Guanyin is not only a religious figure but also a symbol of compassion, justice, and hope. The festival reinforces these values within the community.

Modern Significance

• Tourist Attraction: In recent years, the Guanyin Festival has become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from across Yunnan and beyond. It offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Bai people.
• Cultural Preservation: Efforts are made to preserve and promote the traditions associated with the festival, ensuring that this important cultural heritage continues to be passed down through generations.

Practical Information

• Location: Guanyin Pond is located in Guanyin Tang Village, between Dali Ancient Town and Xiaguan, approximately 5 kilometers from Dali Ancient Town.
• Transportation: Visitors can reach Guanyin Pond by taking bus routes 4 or 8 from Xiaguan to Dali Ancient Town and then transferring to a local bus or taxi.
• Tickets: The entrance fee to Guanyin Pond is 10 yuan.