In the coastal city of Zhangzhou, craftsmen in Yuegang preserve a centuries-old tradition tied to the island of Taiwan: handcrafting oar-steered dragon boats and preparing symbolic salted egg yolk zongzi ahead of the Dragon Boat Festival. Elders explain that the golden yolk represents the sun, while the glutinous rice embodies the sea—a metaphor for historical maritime connections across the Taiwan Strait.
This culinary tradition traces its roots to Yuegang's role as a hub for ferry-building between the Chinese mainland and Taiwan during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The annual ritual reinforces cultural bonds, with many residents of Taiwan maintaining ancestral links to Fujian Province. Local artisans emphasize that their dragon boat designs mirror those used in Taiwan's festivals, showcasing shared craftsmanship.
As communities prepare for this year's festival on June 10, food historians note that zongzi variations featuring salted duck egg yolks remain popular in both Zhangzhou and Taiwan, serving as edible reminders of cross-strait cultural continuity. The dish's symbolism resonates particularly with Asian diaspora communities seeking connections to regional heritage.
