Wudang's bamboo drifting brings intangible heritage to life

The 2026 Bamboo Drifting Art Performance was held on Sept 6 at Yudong Gorge in Dongfeng town, Wudang district, Guiyang, bringing this centuries-old water-based intangible cultural heritage to life and offering spectators a captivating display of traditional culture and athletic skill.

Originating in the Chishui River basin in Guizhou, bamboo drifting evolved from the daily work of ancient communities along the river. Performers stand barefoot on a single bamboo pole and use a slender stick to paddle across the water, maintaining balance while executing challenging moves such as turns and paddle changes. Often described as "ballet on water", bamboo drifting was included in the fifth batch of China's national intangible cultural heritage list in 2021.

A bamboo drifting performance named Water Dragon is shown in Wudang. [Photo/WeChat account of Wudang district]

Since its establishment, the Wudang bamboo drifting team has staged 13 performances and participated in numerous competitions and cultural events both within and outside Guizhou, helping showcase this traditional art to audiences across China.

Performers presented a variety of programs, including Butterfly Dance, Water Dragon, Twin Dragons Chasing the Treasure, and a cheongsam show on water. Standing on bamboo poles as they glided across the water, the performers moved with grace and precision, drawing enthusiastic applause and cheers from the audience.