Tanka Water-Dwelling Folk Customs

The Tanka are a distinct coastal people who lived on boats in southern China for centuries; Beihai's Tanka community traces its roots back hundreds of years, forming a unique water-based cultural system.

Tanka customs include waterborne weddings where the bride is received by boat, Mazu worship ceremonies, call-and-response saltwater singing, and distinctive seafood cooking traditions.

Tanka culture is an important component of Lingnan coastal diversity; the Jinhaiwan mangrove area remains a Tanka community hub.

Jinhaiwan Mangrove Eco-Tourism Area and Qiaogang Street are the best places to experience Tanka culture.