Taking the plunge

Cultural tourism and regional events are helping to raise the profile of traditional festivals

Dragon boat racing, a traditional activity celebrating Duan Wu, also known as the Dragon Boat Festival, is enjoying a revival thanks to the popularity of rowing events and cultural tourism.

The sport originated in Zigui county of Yichang city in Hubei province. This was home to Qu Yuan, a poet in the Warring States Period (475-221 BC). The festival, allegedly, commemorates his death.