The Explainer is where we explain an aspect of Chinese life. Simple. So now you know.
You’ve probably heard the drums echoing, seen the dragon boats slicing through rivers, and maybe even sat down for a hearty Dragon Boat Feast.
But if you’re anywhere near a riverside village in Guangdong, chances are you’ve witnessed something even more spectacular—Zhao Jing (招景).
Image by Billy Jiang/That's
It’s loud. It’s vibrant. It’s uniquely Cantonese. And it’s the part of the Dragon Boat Festival that turns a simple race into a full-blown cultural carnival.
What Exactly Is Zhao Jing
Image by Billy Jiang/That's
At its core, Zhao Jing literally means 'inviting the scene' or 'welcoming the view.'
But in practice, it’s a ceremonial visit where dragon boat teams paddle to other villages or temples to pay respect, showcase their spirit, and most importantly, exchange blessings.
Unlike the competitive races you see on TV, Zhao Jing is not about who rows fastest. It’s about tradition, community ties, and celebration.
Imagine a parade—on water.
Where Did It Come From
Image by Billy Jiang/That's
The origins of Zhao Jing date back centuries and are deeply rooted in Guangdong’s Pearl River Delta, where waterways connected not just trade routes, but also family ties and village alliances.
Long before roadways and express rails, boats were the lifeline of communication.
Image by That's
During festivals like Dragon Boat, it became customary for one village to 'call upon' another, paddling down with festive drums, lion dances, and sometimes even firecrackers to pay homage to local deities or elders, or simply to express goodwill.
In the process, these visits evolved into grand waterborne performances.
What Happens During Zhao Jing
Don’t expect just a polite hello.
When a dragon boat arrives during Zhao Jing, it’s a full ritual:
Crews dress in traditional uniforms, some even in costumes depending on local customs
The boats may be decorated with bright flags, flowers, and incense
Image by Billy Jiang/That's
Drummers keep up a steady ceremonial beat, different from the racing rhythm
When visiting temples, rowers bow the dragon head toward the deity in respect
Image by That's
Hosts welcome guests with firecrackers, gongs, and of course, food
It’s not uncommon for villagers to line the riverbanks, cheering, waving, and throwing good luck offerings like red envelopes or rice dumplings.
And yes, there are plenty of photo ops.
More Than Just a Show
Image by That's
While it looks festive, Zhao Jing carries layers of cultural meaning.
It’s an offering to the gods for safety and good fortune.
It’s a gesture of respect to neighboring villages and ancestors.
And, for the rowers, it’s a spiritual cleansing, a way to clear the path ahead before the races and give thanks after.
Some even believe that the act of visiting other temples and villages strengthens the dragon boat’s 'spirit'—or awakens it fully.
Far from fading into obscurity, Zhao Jing is thriving in places like Foshan’s Shunde District, Guangzhou’s Panyu, and Zhongshan’s waterfront villages.
In recent years, it’s gained attention not just from locals but also from tourists and cultural scholars who see it as a living example of Lingnan heritage in motion.
Some villages even livestream their Zhao Jing events—because why not bring ancient rituals into the digital age?
Dragon Boat Festival might be just about dumplings and racing, but to many in Guangdong, it’s a living tradition that includes paddles, prayers, feasts—and Zhao Jing.
It’s how rivers become highways of heritage.
It’s how one village tells another:
"We’re here. We see you. Let’s celebrate together!"
READ MORE: Explainer: Why Dragon Boat Festival Means a Feast in Guangdong
Join the Tradition
Join the vibrant Dragon Boats Invitation Day on Saturday, May 31, from 8am to 3pm at Elong Hotel in Guangzhou!
Dive into the cultural heart of Dragon Boat Festival as you enjoy a bilingual introduction to dragon boat legends and Zhao Jing traditions, watch a live boat procession and folk parade, and explore a festive craft market with herbal sachets, grass weaving, and creative booths.
Try your hand at DIY rice dumpling making and don’t miss the exclusive Urbanites gift pack and check-in surprises!
Dragon Boats Invitation Day
Early Bird Tickets: RMB188
Standard Tickets & At Door: RMB238
*FREE for children under 1 meter
Saturday, May 31, 8am-3pm
Elong Hotel, No.293 Guangzhou Dadao Zhong, Yuexiu 越秀区广州大道中293号外商艺龙酒店（珠江新城店）
[Cover image by Billy Jiang/That's]
0 User Comments