Benzhu Worship 本主节

Thursday, 30. January 2025 until Sunday, 2. February 2025 in 宾川县上沧村

Benzhu are local protector deities in the Dali area, their worship is a key element of Bai identity. In the Dali area, almost every Bai village has a Benzhu Temple, the home of a local protector spirit. These protector spirits are mostly historic figures, such as local heros, kings, generals or others who have through good deeds won the adulation of the local population. Each Benzhu usually has his own festival day, with activities varying greatly from place to place.

See related festivals.

The main Benzhu here is a guy who, according to legend, found silver up the mountain leading to the opening of a mine. This Benzhujie used to be two days later, but has been moved to the second day. The Benzhu are returned to the temple four days later.
Festival held according to lunar calendar on 农历1月初2.