Carrying starlight, wandering through the ancient village lanes in search of a bygone dream

As twilight drapes over Xidi's horse-head walls, children's laughter begins to echo through the alleyways. A warm glow suddenly sways around the corner—villagers carrying fish lanterns are making their way toward the village entrance, marking the beginning of this centuries-old Night Fish Lantern Parade.

Red lanterns sway above doorframes, casting delicate light that glistens on the bluestone pavement. Suddenly, the sound of drums and gongs erupts, and over twenty fish lanterns emerge in procession from Jing'ai Hall: silver scales shimmer on the carp lanterns, while koi tails gently brush against walls, joined by goldfish and mandarin fish lanterns—together they swim through the night like a flowing river of stars. The lantern bearers move with rhythmic steps to the drumbeats, making the fish appear alive—tails flicking, leaping from imaginary "waters," drawing gasps of delight from onlookers.

Following the lanterns through winding lanes, their light casts dancing fish shadows on whitewashed walls, interplaying with carved floral motifs and inscribed plaques. At one household, an elderly woman offers tea with a smile: "Where fish lanterns swim, the year ahead flows smooth." More than mere festivity, these lanterns carry Xidi's ancient wish for "abundance year after year."

Beneath the Huiwen Memorial Archway, the fish lanterns suddenly gather and scatter like playful fish circling a reef. Their glow illuminates the arch's stone carvings, awakening mythical beasts that seem to join this millennium-old ritual. A woman in qipao poses for photos amidst the lanterns—her fluttering sleeves blur time, leaving one wondering whether modern life has stepped into an ancient painting or if history has slipped into tonight's magic.

Practical Tips:

- Timing: The Night Fish Lantern Parade occurs during Spring Festival/Lantern Week. For other dates, check with local B&Bs about small-scale events.
- Hands-on: Visit the intangible cultural heritage workshop by the village entrance to craft simple fish lanterns—perfect for family activities. Take your creation lantern-lit strolls.
- Photography: Use your phone's long-exposure mode to capture the lanterns' flowing trails. Light-colored clothing photographs beautifully under the lantern glow.

Post by Gastro Nomads | Aug 4, 2025