Mountains' echoes mingle with sacred wooden drum beats of Wa people

Among the ancient ethnic groups of southern China, Wa people are known for their bold spirit and rich traditions. Music and dance are part of daily life, with every member of the community a singer and dancer at heart.

At the center of Wa culture lies a powerful symbol: the wooden drum. Far more than a musical instrument, it is revered as a sacred conduit to the heavens – a divine protector of the village, rooted in ancestral totem worship dating back to the matriarchal era.

The drum serves multiple roles: it is sounded in rituals, used to raise alarms, summon villagers, or simply bring joy through communal celebration. In every Wa village, people will find one or more wooden drum houses, each echoing with history.

For centuries, the deep, resonant beat of the wooden drum has rolled across the mountains – connecting Wa people with their ancestors and deities, driving away evil, ensuring peace and rallying the community in times of need.

In recognition of this cherished tradition, April 10 to April 12 was officially designated in 2002 as the dates for the Wa Wooden Drum Festival. The festival is a colorful display of local customs, offering a window into Wa people's religion, songs and dances, cuisine, clothing, etiquette and way of life.