Hundreds gathered in Shanghai’s Luodian ancient town this weekend as oarsmen sliced through waterways in a dazzling display of tradition and teamwork. The 18th Luodian Dragon Boat Culture Festival – think ‘Synchronized Swimming, But Make It Ancient China’ 💦 – transformed the historic canals into a living museum of rhythm and color.
Once a humble river race dating back centuries, the event now features boats decked with intricate pavilions and fluttering flags, rowed in hypnotic formations. The 2008 recognition as national intangible cultural heritage has turned it into a must-see summer spectacle, blending history with Insta-worthy visuals 📸.
Local resident Zhang Wei told us: "It’s like our ancestors’ TikTok – every movement tells a story." With Dragon Boat Festival vibes sweeping Asia, this watery art form proves old traditions can still make big waves 🌊.
