Yi ethnic minority express deep emotion for flowers

As azaleas burst into bloom throughout southwest Guizhou province, the Yi ethnic minority perform their ancient ceremony that is thousands of years old.

The flower is a symbol of beauty and luck for the Yi people. They have many tales of the goddess of flowers in the Bijie area. The most beautiful girl is Suoma Flower, the saint flower, named after the goddess.

The ceremony starts at noon. Yi people believe this is the most auspicious time of the day, as the sun is at its highest point.

Their priests read the script of the traditional prayers. They burn joss sticks, set off firecrackers, play music and splash holy water.

For thousands of years, the Yi people have felt a deep emotion for flowers, especially the azalea. The prayer ceremony shows their love of beauty. "Baili asalea" is listed as one of China's national beauty spots. Visitors enjoy the beautiful colors of the azalea and experience the rich ethnic culture of the Yi people.