Guilin's Two Rivers and Four Lakes shines with Song-stylelantern festival

Guilin's Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area has infused the Mid-Autumn Festival with the charm of the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD) through its "Elegance of Song Dynasty: Moon and Water Shining Together" lantern festival.

The Mid-Autumn lantern fair at Guilin's Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area is lively. [Photo/Guangxi Daily]

Recently launched, the event turns the scenic spot into a nighttime center of light and culture, delighting both locals and visitors.

As night falls, Mulong Lake becomes the focus with its mesmerizing scenery. Boats drift smoothly across the water, their routes lit up by colorful lanterns that reflect a warm glow below. The gentle moonlight merges with the lantern illumination, creating a peaceful, scenic view reminiscent of the Song Dynasty.

A highlight of the festival is the moon-worshipping ceremony at Mulong Lake's ancient city wall. Officiants, dressed in traditional Song-style Hanfu (the traditional dress of the Han Chinese people), carry ritual tools and chant prayers for national peace and family reunion.

On Mid-Autumn night, a moon-worshipping ceremony prays for national and family well-being. [Photo/Guangxi Daily]

This ceremony originates from the Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BC) and gained popularity during the Tang (618-907 AD) and Song dynasties. Its recent revival allows modern audiences to connect with the richness of traditional culture. "It's my first time experiencing this – it truly helped me understand the Mid-Autumn festival's spirit of reunion", said a tourist from Shanghai.

Ronghu Lake's ancient south gate offers a more lively atmosphere. Children’s hand-painted lanterns, depicting jade rabbits and Lijiang River scenes, bring a charming element. A vendor in costume pushes a cart selling intangible cultural heritage fish lanterns, while stalls for fan-painting and sachet-making attract many visitors.

A vendor's shelf, filled with lifelike intangible cultural heritage fish lanterns, becomes a popular mobile photo spot. [Photo/Guangxi Daily]

This lantern festival combines the refined elegance of the Song Dynasty with Guilin's scenic beauty. It revitalizes traditional customs while promoting the themes of reunion and gratitude, ensuring this Mid-Autumn Festival remains memorable for everyone present.