The streets of Xishuangbanna transformed into a vibrant aquatic stage this week as the annual Water Splashing Festival commenced, marking the New Year on the Dai calendar. Thousands of residents and international travelers gathered in southwest China's Yunnan Province to participate in what many describe as "a real-life movie scene" of cultural unity and jubilation.
Dai tradition holds that water carries blessings and purifies the soul. Participants armed with buckets, water guns, and palm leaves enthusiastically engaged in good-natured battles, their laughter echoing across the tropical landscape. Local organizers report record attendance this year, with tourism numbers surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
CGTN Digital's Wang Tao captured elders performing time-honored Buddhist rituals at dawn, juxtaposed with afternoon crowds dancing to modern reinterpretations of traditional drum music. "This festival shows how cultural roots can thrive alongside contemporary tourism," observed a spokesperson from Yunnan's cultural bureau.
Business analysts note the event's growing economic impact, with hospitality revenues up 18% compared to 2025. The festival coincides with new direct flight routes connecting Yunnan to Southeast Asia, positioning the region as a key hub for cultural tourism.
