[Video] Beyond the Olympics: China’s unique minority games

From humble beginnings in 1953 with fewer than 400 athletes, the National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities of China has grown into a grand celebration of culture and athleticism. The 12th edition, held last year, saw 7,000 athletes from 35 delegations competing across 18 sports over nine days.

Among the highlights are swinging, a test of strength and balance that delivers an adrenaline rush, and Yajia, a Tibetan-style tug-of-war played back-to-back to mimic the movements of elephants, believed to bring good luck. Pearl ball, resembling basketball but with a moving net, honours the labourers of the past.

These sports not only showcase athletes’ physical prowess but also reflect the distinct landscapes and lifestyles of different ethnic groups across China. While some sports preserve ancient traditions, such as board-shoe racing, a Zhuang ethnic practice, and crossbow shooting, which harks back to ancient hunting practices, others highlight the unique lifestyles shaped by local environments, like coconut tree climbing in Hainan or bamboo drifting in river communities. Together, they serve as bridges, connecting generations to the cultural essence of diverse communities.

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