Traditional spring plowing begins in Xizang

The Dapu Astronomical Observation Station in Mozhugongka County, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, is the only astronomical and calendrical observation site still in use locally. The platform consists of a "sunlight-aperture" building and a "sunlight-measuring" stone. When sunlight passes through the aperture in the roof and shines onto the stone, forming a straight line between three fixed points, it signals the arrival of the season for spring plowing and sowing.

For local farmers, spring plowing and sowing mark one of the most important events of the year. On the day of the "spring plowing" ceremony, villagers dress in festive attire and gather in the fields. Draft cattle and "iron oxen" – tractors and other agricultural machinery – are decorated with red tassels, colorful khatas and ringing bells, creating a solemn yet joyful atmosphere.

The traditional "two-ox plowing" method, with a history of more than 2,000 years, takes the lead in gently turning the fertile soil. It is followed by the roar of modern farm machinery working efficiently across the fields, blending traditional ceremony with the vitality of modern agriculture. Women walk behind, scattering seeds of highland barley, winter wheat and peas while praying for favorable weather and a bumper harvest.

As the ceremony concludes, celebrations begin in the fields. Villagers sit in circles, pouring mellow highland barley wine, serving steaming butter tea, and sharing local delicacies as they talk freely about their hopes and visions for the new year. In some villages, traditional folk games such as the "Hit the Horn Competition" are held, with cheers and laughter ringing out across the farmland. Singing and dancing, people celebrate the beginning of the plowing season and look forward to a golden harvest in autumn.