Nothing Beats Summer Dragon Boats in Beijing
Savour Chinese culture by experiencing an ancient Chinese festival.Beijing is the Asian capital that never sleeps, with plenty to see and do at all hours of the day or night. With overwhelming exotic sights, it’s no surprise that most tourists don’t see everything this destination has to offer in one holiday.
A great way to explore the cultural and colourful aspects of Chinese culture in Beijing is by attending some of their unique festivals, like the Lantern Festival in Spring, International Kite festival and Dragon Boat festivals throughout the year. Being in Beijing during Dragon Boast festival means seeing one of the most famous celebrations in Beijing, and it draws in scores of interested tourists. Like all of Beijing’s festivals, the Dragon Boat festival has an historical and spiritual origin. The ancient Chinese poet Quyuan allegedly committed suicide by jumping into the Milou River, while shocked Chinese attempted to preserve his body from being damaged and eaten by fish.
The Boat Race itself is both dramatic and elaborate, taking place to the beat of drums and the waving of colourful flags. Traditional foods, like Zongzi, o rice dumplings, are served and houses are adorned with mugwort leaves. Local Dragon Boat racing, now the international sport of China, is both fun and fascinating for foreign tourists to watch. Be sure to be in Beijing during June, the month of the Dragon Boat Festival.
Beijing is a colourful and vibrant destination, rich in history and steeped in exotic culture. This great city is a marvellous pick for a multicultural and eye-opening adventure. Beijing is serviced by flights from London Heathrow that operate year round.
