Shandong county freed from outdated customs

Newlyweds in Qihe pose for a photo at their wedding ceremony. [Photo by Liu Lei, Sun Shuyi for chinadaily.com.cn]

Qihe county in Dezhou, East China's Shandong province, has in recent years made efforts to abandon outdated customs and improve its local culture.

A newly married couple kisses in front of friends and relatives. [Photo by Liu Lei, Sun Shuyi for chinadaily.com.cn]

The county has formulated village regulations and agreements based on the conditions of different villages and tackled problems such as expensive betrothal gifts and high-profile weddings and funerals to encourage a more civilized and healthier lifestyle. (Edited by Gong Jun)

A bridegroom rides an electric scooter to pick up his bride. [Photo by Liu Lei, Sun Shuyi for chinadaily.com.cn]