Tongjiang, a vibrant city of 160,000 in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, sits gracefully at the confluence of the Songhua and Amur rivers. The Amur River marks the border with Russia, making Tongjiang a pivotal point for cultural and economic exchanges between the two nations.
During the annual Wurigong Festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the fifth month in the traditional Chinese calendar, the city comes alive with the rich customs of the Hezhe ethnic group. Lasting two to three days, the festival embodies the essence of \"Wurigong,\" which translates to \"celebration and joy\" in the Hezhe language.
Russian content creator Anna Yuschenko, an international student at Tsinghua University, recently visited Tongjiang to experience the festival firsthand. Anna was warmly welcomed by the local residents, whose hospitality made her feel right at home. As she explored the city, she noticed numerous shops adorned with Russian signage, each telling timeless tales of the longstanding exchanges between China and Russia.
Anna's visit highlights the unique blend of cultures in Tongjiang, where traditional Hezhe festivities meet modern Russian influences. This harmonious coexistence not only preserves the rich heritage of the local community but also fosters stronger ties between the neighboring countries.
The Wurigong Festival serves as a testament to the enduring friendship and mutual respect shared by the people of Tongjiang and their Russian counterparts. Through events like these, Tongjiang continues to be a beacon of cultural exchange and celebration on the China-Russia border.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
