The “Heavenly Dance” of the Jingpo People

Festival Story

Legend says Munao Zongge originated from a celebration in the Sun Palace. Birds invited to the feast returned to a fruit-laden tree and reenacted the orderly, grand dance. Jingpo ancestors witnessed this and learned the steps and paths from the birds, passing them down. The leaders’ peacock feather headdresses commemorate these dance “teachers.”

Exclusive Experiences

1. How can I make a festival gift? The day before, we visit a village elder. In his home, you’ll use fresh banana leaves to wrap tea and two glutinous rice cakes, tying them with a small bamboo wine tube to make a simple “gift basket.”
2. Is there basic step instruction before I join the dance? Before the dance, our dancer will practice with you in an open area. Just follow the drumbeat and the “Naoshuang” leader’s long knife, learning the basic “two steps, one stomp” rhythm.
3. With so many people, how can I follow the line? You’ll enter from our arranged entrance. Once in, you’re surrounded by people moving to the same beat. Just follow the shoulder sways of the dancer ahead, and you’ll naturally flow with the rhythm and path.
4. Is there a drinking session after dancing? After dancing, we seat you at the long-table feast. You can exchange your gift basket with neighbors. Then, we’ll demonstrate sharing a bamboo tube of “unity wine” with a companion.