[Essay] Tales from the Asian Walking Club

I was quite thrilled when I said, ‘Let’s go see, it might broaden our horizons.’ As soon as we set off, we arrived at the village chief’s house. His wife was busy preparing a feast with roasted goose and chicken. We, not wanting to be rude, indulged ourselves in a hearty meal. The sky was already black as ink when I checked my watch—it was past seven. Outside, men and women, old and young, dressed in their best, gathered under the lanterns. A festive bonfire blazed, its flames dancing in the night. Soon, a band of drummers arrived, setting the rhythm for an evening of festivities, each with their own musical style. First, they hung garlands made of colorful flowers, left and right. After arranging them, they began to play an array of tunes, featuring dance and performances, as well as mountain songs and zither melodies. Young men and women paired off, moving in circles—their joy was infectious.

Under the flickering torchlight, the energetic singing and the enchanting sound of flutes filled the night air, inviting both onlookers and participants to revel together. As the party reached its peak, I settled on the floor next to the village chief and listened to his tales, ‘When my daughter reached sixteen, we held a matchmaking event similar to this…’ Those words lingered as I watched young couples engage in traditional courtship, singing and dancing, exchanging glances—such a joyous scene. Later in the night, negotiations began, with wine as a symbol of agreement, leading to a future marriage. New brides were traditionally fetched with lit candles, escorted by a happy entourage of women, off to worship in the temple, while the children playfully found their own amusement alongside the sleepy village dogs.