Uzbek Navruz Sumalak Stirring Lijiang Waterfront

Rich amber sunset light bathes a waterfront gathering in Lijiang where participants stir large cauldrons of sumalak. Copper-toned rays reflect off the rippling water while layers of figures recede into the distance along the stone embankment. Traditional woven baskets and wooden ladles rest near the steaming pots. The early summer sky remains clear above the crowd, casting long, soft shadows across the textured stone ground. Faces turn toward the bubbling mixture with focused attention. A wooden handle rests against the rim of a clay vessel, its grain visible in the warm glow.