Festive Odyssey: Hangzhou Iron Flower Beating, Sparks Scattered

Dipu Ancient Village, located in Tonglu County, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, is a village with over 900 years of history. It attracts visitors not only with its quaint architecture and profound cultural heritage but also with its unique traditional activity—iron flower beating, which has become a focal point for tourists.

Iron flower beating is an ancient folk craft that originated in the Song and Yuan dynasties, flourished in the Ming and Qing dynasties, and has a history of over a thousand years. Initially, it was performed to worship historical heroes and to express gratitude for bountiful harvests and national peace. In Dilu Ancient Village, iron flower beating is not only a continuation of tradition but also a prayer for a better life.

The performance of iron flower beating is usually carried out by a team of people. The performers, bare-chested, splash molten iron into the air, creating bursts of dazzling sparks. The most spectacular part is the double-person iron flower beating, where two performers work in perfect harmony. One scoops up the molten iron, while the other strikes it forcefully, causing the iron flowers to scatter like a shower of golden petals. The sparks bloom in the night sky like golden flowers, complementing the village’s night scenery. Visitors can enjoy this unique performance amidst the village’s floral sea, experiencing the charm of traditional culture.

Iron flower beating in Dipu Ancient Village is not just a visual feast but also a cultural journey across millennia. Here, ancient craftsmanship blends perfectly with modern appeal, allowing you to feel the unique charm of traditional culture amidst the sparkling sparks. If you are interested in this unique folk activity, consider joining us on a trip to Dipu Ancient Village to experience an unforgettable iron flower beating journey.