Sixteen bulls from places such as Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region and Guizhou province participated in a bull fighting competition held at Xialuo village in Jinchengjiang district, Hechi, on April 8, to celebrate the Double Third Day, a traditional festival of the Zhuang ethnic group.

Organized bull fighting has been a traditional observance during certain festivals in China by ethnic minorities including the Miao and Zhuang ethnic groups. Though some may find it barbaric, it has been practiced for more than 500 years, as an act of prayer for bumper harvests and social peace.

A bull chases down its opponent during the bull fighting competition in Jinchengjiang district, Hechi, on April 8. [Photo by Go Dongfeng / hcwang.cn]

Two bulls butt heads during the bull fighting competition in Jinchengjiang district, Hechi, on April 8. [Photo by Go Dongfeng / hcwang.cn]

Two bulls in an intense chase during the bull fighting competition in Jinchengjiang district, Hechi, on April 8. [Photo by Go Dongfeng / hcwang.cn]