Mountain-Circling Festival, Pray of Mosuo People

Mosuo people are inhabitants on the banks of the Lugu River in southwest China’s Yunnan province. The Mountain-Circling Festival is one of the grandest annual festivals celebrated by them. It is a day to pay homage to the holiest goddess of protection called Gemu. On the 25th of lunar July, local people pray for the Goddess' protection by providing offerings to her on the Lion Mountain, which is believed to be the incarnation of Goddess Gemu. In the meanwhile, the custom of walking around the mountain is observed.

The mountain-circling festivities last for three days. During the day, activities like singing, dancing, horse racing, wrestling and picnicking are held; during the night, people camp by the Lugu Riverside. This is a good chance for young men and women to get to know each other, so that they could become lovers in the future.