#China #Chinese New Year #Yulin City #Yulin #Yangko Dance

A Celebratory Occasion in Yulin

On the 14th day of the lunar new year, an enthusiastic group of international visitors arrived at the Northern Shaanxi Folklore Museum in Yulin City. To usher in the celebrations, renowned folk singer Wang Zhixing kicked off the day with an impromptu performance. The music of Northern Shaanxi, characterized by its high-pitched melodies and rhythmic verses, has been sung for generations, encapsulating the rich emotional tapestry of its people. From work songs to love duets, the repertoire spans weddings, funerals, festivals, and rituals, revealing the collective sentiments and traditions of the community. In recognition of its cultural significance, these folk songs were included in the first batch of China's national intangible cultural heritage list in 2006. One visitor remarked, "The song beautifully conveys the essence of China; I may not understand the lyrics, but I can feel the emotions."

At the Yulin Institute for Folklore Research, preparations were also underway for the National Yangko Festival 2025. The yangko dance, which can be traced back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, combines elements of dance, opera, and folk rituals, offering a jubilant form of entertainment that has long served local farmers during their leisure time. This joyful expression reflects the optimism of the Loess Plateau inhabitants and was also inscribed on the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008.

In 2025, the upcoming Yulin Lantern Festival promises a grand spectacle, featuring not only yangko performances from across China but also art troupes from Bulgaria, Thailand, South Korea, and Russia. This captivating amalgamation of Eastern and Western cultures infuses new life into the age-old yangko traditions. International participants have expressed their appreciation for the performances, stating, "I absolutely loved their delivery and dance; it was mesmerizing. Celebrating Chinese New Year collectively is a refreshing break from the typical Western family-centric festivities."

As they joined in the yangko parade, guests had the chance to immerse themselves in the charm of this intangible cultural heritage while gaining a deeper understanding of its cultural significance. One visitor observed, "The confidence reflected in the eyes of the performers showcases 5,000 years of civilization. I have great respect for and love this culture."

From the melodic ambiance of the folklore museum to the immersive street yangko experience, Yulin is building intercultural bridges through the arts of intangible cultural heritage for friends from China and abroad. These lively notes and dynamic dance steps create a vibrant gift for the Lunar New Year, acting as a code that allows the world to appreciate the culture of this province, breathing new vitality into the intangible cultural heritage of Northern Shaanxi.