Traditional marriage custom practiced in Ninghai

The 10-mile red dowry, a traditional wedding ceremony, is staged in Qiantong Ancient Town in Ningbo's Ninghai county on Oct 10. [Photo/Ningbo Daily]

The 10-mile red dowry, a traditional wedding ceremony, was staged in Qiantong Ancient Town in Ningbo's Ninghai county on Oct 10.

The ceremony featured a grand procession of bearers who carried the bride's dowry through the town.

The dowry included furniture, chests of clothing, and other household items that the couple would need to start their lives together. The procession of gifts could stretch for miles, but was named the "10-mile red dowry" to emphasize its grandiosity.

The festivities had a red and yellow color scheme, and the furniture is often lacquered in gold.

The unique folk custom that is usually practiced in Ninghai and eastern Zhejiang is listed as a national intangible cultural heritage item.                                          

The bride is seen in a sedan during the ceremony. [Photo/Ningbo Daily]

The ceremony features a grand procession of bearers who carried the brides' dowry through the town. [Photo/Ningbo Daily]