Matsutake Picking and Kaishan Festival in Nanhua County, Chuxiong

Chinese Name: 南华县五街镇松茸采摘开山节
English Name: Matsutake Picking and Kaishan Festival in Nanhua County, Chuxiong
Location:南华县五街镇/Wujie Town, Nanhua County

Overview

Celebration in the Mountains

In the mountain forests, amidst the myriad of mushrooms, accompanied by the wafting aroma of fungi and the persistent chirping of cicadas, a grand and unique celebration unfolds — the Wujie Town Matsutake Mushroom Opening Ceremony with a thousand people dancing in celebration of the harvest! Wujie is a tranquil place hidden among mountains and waters, where peaks rise and streams flow gently. Every matsutake mushroom growing here is laden with the blessings of nature, drawing on the essence of the mountains and rivers, and embodying the spirit of Wujie’s landscapes.

The Opening Ceremony

Once again, it’s time for the opening ceremony. With awe and joy, we pray for peace in the mountains, a bountiful matsutake harvest, and a prosperous life. At the ceremony site, colorful flags flutter as thousands gather to celebrate. The cheerful music of “Ge Xie Lie” rings out, signaling the official start of the thousand-person dance. Men, women, and children, dressed in vibrant ethnic costumes, beam with radiant smiles, holding hands to form tightly interconnected circles. Their steps are light and their postures strong. Joyful dance steps resonate on the earth, and enthusiastic singing soars into the sky, harmonizing with the streams and fresh breeze, telling the stories of the mountains, ancient legends, and the passage of history.

The Dance Experience

On a midsummer afternoon, the heat takes on a romantic quality. The dancing crowd flows like a rushing river, full of vitality and vigor; some dance smoothly, their movements graceful, while others might appear slightly awkward but are brimming with enthusiasm. Everyone moves to the rhythm of the music, sometimes spinning quickly and sometimes stepping slowly. Each motion is imbued with deep ethnic emotion, as if collectively performing a grand dance epic. In everyone’s eyes, there is a sparkle; the sounds of singing and laughter intertwine. People express the grandeur and beauty of life with their most sincere feelings and boldest postures, conveying their appreciation for the harvest and gratitude to nature.

Cultural Reflection

The thousand-person dance is a lively experience of being guided, inspired, and uplifted, something beyond the tumult of city life. It vividly reflects the deep connection among the people of Wujie Town, showcasing their simplicity and enthusiasm, as well as their love for their hometown and confidence in the future. This is not just a celebration of the harvest; it is also a transmission and fusion of ethnic culture. Each step we take while dancing echoes through history towards the future.

Embracing the Spirit

In the fervent atmosphere of the thousand-person dance, we can feel the charm of Yi culture, experience the strength of unity, and touch the truth of harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature. Every encounter with ethnic culture is a cleansing of the soul. In this vast land amidst mountains and people, let us not squander this encounter. Everyone leaves unforgettable memories in the melodies of the thousand-person dance, embracing the gifts of nature and envisioning a bright future. Together, we step into this vibrant and joyous celebration, sharing in the joy of the matsutake harvest and witnessing the prosperity and beauty of this land.

Highlights of the Festival

Matsutake Harvesting

The festival heralds the start of the matsutake mushroom harvesting season. Both locals and visitors take part in foraging for these esteemed mushrooms in the surrounding forests.

Cultural Celebrations

The Kaishan Festival is a vibrant display of traditional Yi music and dance, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage. Participants don colorful ethnic costumes, enhancing the festive spirit.

Traditional Dance (Dajia)

A focal point of the festival is the Dajia dance, where thousands come together in a joyous display of unity. This communal dance often narrates tales from Yi culture and mythology.

Culinary Delights

Local cuisine takes center stage with dishes featuring fresh matsutake mushrooms. Visitors can sample a variety of traditional dishes, offering a taste of authentic Yi flavors.

Ceremonial Activities

The festival includes rituals and ceremonies that honor nature and express gratitude for a successful harvest. These may feature offerings and prayers for continued prosperity and harmony with the environment.

Competitions and Exhibitions

Attendees can enjoy competitions for the best matsutake mushrooms and exhibitions of local crafts, agricultural products, and traditional artworks. These activities provide insights into the local culture and craftsmanship.

Ecological Awareness

The festival emphasizes ecological preservation and sustainable harvesting practices, promoting awareness of the importance of nature and biodiversity.

Local Activities

Guided Mushroom Picking Tours

Tourists can join guided tours to learn about matsutake mushrooms, their ecology, and sustainable harvesting techniques.

Photography Opportunities

The festival’s picturesque mountainous landscape offers numerous photography opportunities, capturing both the natural beauty and lively festivities.

Workshops

Participants can attend workshops to learn traditional Yi crafts, such as weaving or pottery, for an immersive cultural experience.

Markets

Local markets during the festival showcase handmade crafts, traditional clothing, and gourmet foods, including preserved matsutake and other local specialties.

Nature Walks

Guided nature walks allow attendees to explore the stunning natural scenery of Nanhua County, deepening their appreciation for the local environment.

The Matsutake Picking and Kaishan Festival is a celebration that not only marks the mushroom harvest but also serves as a significant cultural event fostering community spirit, cultural exchange, and appreciation of Nanhua County’s natural beauty.