Villagers in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region have been observing traditional rituals calling for a bountiful harvest as local farmers prepare for the year's labor as they usher in the spring.
One of the rituals, known as "leading the spring ox" or "Shuachunniu" in Chinese, is held in different regions across China around the second solar term, known as "Rain Water", in the traditional Chinese lunar calendar.
Also known as "Yu Shui" in Chinese, the second solar term sees temperatures gradually rise, snow and ice beginning to melt, and an increase in rain fall.
In Fuxi Village, in Fuchuan Yao Autonomous County in Guangxi, "Shuachunniu" was observed by locals who danced and sang joyous songs in the small village square while imitating activities like plowing and farming.
The "spring ox" used in the ceremony is made from bamboo frames covered in cowhide and palm leaves.
After performing in the square, the participants led the "spring ox" from door to door, bringing new year blessings to every household in the village.
"The spring ox is a symbol of the spring and the plowing season. It reminds us of the beginning of the spring. We should start laboring and sowing seeds in the field," said villager Zhou Xiuwen.
Guangxi villagers observe traditional spring rituals for bountiful harvest
