On November 15, Dongguan's Shatian Town will bring a timeless tradition back to life as the Danjia Water Wedding Ceremony unfolds along the Suifengnian River (穗丰年水道). 

Ten couples will celebrate their marriage following the ancient customs of the Danjia people, a community with a deep-rooted maritime heritage.

The ceremony begins with the iconic Danjia custom of "using boats as bridal sedan chairs." A fleet of beautifully decorated boats will escort the grooms to meet their brides. 

At Fangcao Shuiliao Pier, brides will take part in traditional rituals such as the "hair-combing ceremony" and tasting the symbolic "sweet dumpling soup," representing blessings for a harmonious new life.

As the wedding boats arrive at the Danjia Cultural & Arts Center, couples will follow classic ceremonial steps: stepping over a fire basin, sharing wedding sweets, bowing three times, and drinking the traditional cup-joining wine. Their vows will be accompanied by the melodic "Xianshui songs," a signature art form of Danjia culture. Local golden-anniversary couples will serve as witnesses, adding heartfelt meaning to the moment.

Guests can enjoy a traditional Danjia banquet featuring local water-inspired dishes such as boiled prawns and steamed seafood. Along the waterfront, the "Shatian Memories Market" will showcase intangible cultural heritage, including traditional Dongguan straw-weaving crafts and over 30 stalls offering local food, handmade goods, and creative products.

Event Information

Date: 9:30-12:30, November 15, 2025

Route: Suifengnian Pier (穗丰年水道码头) → Fangcao Shuiliao Pier (芳草水寮码头) → Danjia Cultural & Arts Center Pier (疍家文化艺术中心码头)

Tips: Arrive early for a good viewing spot; dress lightly and enjoy the scenery along the water.

Shatian invites you to witness a romantic journey where love flows with tradition, and culture comes alive on the water.