Going with the flow

Single bamboo drifting has gained popularity among youngsters in recent years, thanks to increased efforts by local authorities to promote it.

"We hold training classes every year, so that young people who are interested come and learn," he says.

Xiong is a member of a single bamboo drifting team led by Peng Gang, who has nearly four decades of experience.

Growing up along the Chishui River, the 54-year-old developed an interest as a child.

"Single bamboo drifting was a common sight when I was young, as villagers used to cross the river on bamboo," says Peng, who began imitating his elders by jumping on floating bamboo stems for fun.

Peng joined the single bamboo drifting team that was founded in Datong in 2009, practicing in the river for four to five hours every day from May to September.