A photo of the Gelao girls with glutinous rice cakes in 1988, taken by Zhang Yuezeng. [Photo/ China Photographers Association]

Gelao ethnic group

The region where the Gelao people live has complex landform and wet climate so they live mainly on agriculture. Corn is grown on the hilly land and the plain fields have rice paddies. They are also proud of the refinement of forging, blacksmith and stonecutting. You can appreciate their artistic works on steles, bridges and balusters.

Corn and rice are their staple food but glutinous rice cake is their favorite. They can cook in various ways and flavors using honey, sesame, brown and white sugar. Acidic and spicy foods are among the most common meals. What's more, they like to brew wine with corn, jowar, and rice which is known as 'Climbing Wine' (Papo Jiu), an indispensable part of etiquette during festivals.