Chishui Hosts 11-Kilometer Mid-Autumn Single Bamboo Drifting Challenge

On September 25, Chishui, a city in Zunyi, Guizhou Province, held an 11-kilometer Mid-Autumn single bamboo drifting challenge. Eight contestants raced down the river while balancing on bamboo poles, showcasing a sport rooted in intangible cultural heritage amid green mountains and clear waters.

At the competition. Photo by Ren Jie

The contestants set off from the lower dock of Datong Ancient Town and raced along an 11-kilometer route to the Chishui Winter Swimming Base. Each contestant stood on a single bamboo pole, feet firmly planted and eyes focused ahead. On challenging stretches of the river, they remained calm and maintained their balance.

At the competition. Photo by Ren Jie

Chishui single bamboo drifting is a national-level intangible cultural heritage practice. It originated in the work of people along the Chishui River who floated bamboo downstream for transport. A bamboo pole and a river evoke memories of life on the water and of livelihoods built around bamboo. The practice also reflects the dedication of generations who have passed it on. Today, it has evolved from a means of transport into a distinctive water sport and a cultural symbol of the Chishui River.

At the competition. Photo by Wang Ya

In recent years, Chishui has stepped up efforts to preserve and pass on single bamboo drifting. Training courses have attracted enthusiasts from the city and elsewhere in Guizhou, as well as from outside the province. With longtime practitioners continuing to teach the practice and young people joining in, this old tradition continues to find new life and has become a way to share local culture.

At the competition. Photo by Wang Ya