For over four centuries, the ancient city of Foshan in Guangdong province has maintained a remarkable Lantern Festival tradition centered around Tongji Bridge. This annual ritual, occurring on the 15th and 16th days of the first lunar month, draws entire families who participate in a symbolic procession across the historic structure while carrying traditional tokens of fortune.
Participants clutch windmills representing good luck and lettuce symbolizing wealth as they traverse the bridge from north to south, chanting the traditional phrase: ‘Crossing Tongji Bridge, troubles go away.’ This practice has evolved into one of South China’s most enduring cultural celebrations, blending folk beliefs with community bonding.
The tradition continues to thrive in modern times, with this year’s events scheduled from March 2-4 incorporating both traditional elements and contemporary attractions. The festival now features charitable parades, dynamic lion dance performances, and vibrant night markets that create a bridge between Foshan’s rich heritage and its modern urban identity.
Tongji Bridge itself stands as more than mere infrastructure—it serves as a cultural touchstone connecting generations of Foshan residents. The ritual represents one of many regional variations in how Chinese communities celebrate the Lantern Festival, which marks the final day of traditional Spring Festival observances.
The preservation of this custom demonstrates how ancient traditions adapt to contemporary urban life while maintaining their core cultural significance. As families continue to gather annually for this ritual, they reinforce community bonds and ensure the transmission of cultural values to younger generations.