"Stealing moon vegetables", Xinhuang, Hunan

At the night of the Mid-autumn Day in Xinhuang county, Hunan, an interesting custom of "stealing moon vegetables" is popular in Dong villages. According to the legend, the fairies from the Moon Palace would pour down the sweet dew to the mortal world. The sweet dew symbolizes selflessness. Therefore, people could share the sweetness of fruits and vegetables together. The unique custom is called "stealing moon vegetables".

Dong girls hold pretty umbrellas choose the garden or farm lands of their own lovers to pick vegetables and fruits. Of course this is not regarded as stealing, but it is a unique way to express love. If they pick a twin vegetable or fruit, it signifies that they will have happy affections. Besides, the vegetables can only be cooked and eat in the wild rather than being brought them home.

Travel tips: visitors can go to Xinhuang county from Huaihua, by bus or train. The scenic sights in Xinhuang include Longmen memorial gateway, Bozhou town, Yelang ancient town, Shuangshi Peak ancient battle field and Fairy Bridge. The houses on stilts are local unique sights.

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