World Natural Heritage World Geopark The First National Forest Park of China
Unlike the bold actions of ephebes of Miao nationality by chatting up actively, the youth of Tujia nationality seem more reserved in speaking their love out. They take the konaha as their love messenger.
Walking along the hill paths or in the Tujia village, you may hear a piping and melodious sound, which will bring you an illusion of entering a high-level concert. Actually, there is no flute, no piano or any orchestra, just an instrument of leaves-konoha, an oval-shaped leaf with a smooth surface and malleability. The intelligent Tujia people make use of this property, couple with their technique to turn this into a magic.
Kohona, a small but unique music instrument, has a beautiful tone bestowed by nature. It is a kind of single spring sound instrument as well as a way for them to express their love. Speaking of its origin, legend goes that:
Long long ago, a youth of Tujia nationality, Jiangxiongjiu met a girl named Jiaxiongjiu, and they fell in love with each other at the first sight in the love song antiphonal response. Later on, the girl came to the boy’s home, but his mother did not content with her and managed to drove her out of the door. In order to persuade her to stay, the man pretended to be contained to bed. The girl did not know it was a trick, and ready to leave after three-year intensive care for three years. When she depressively went a long way with her package , the boy was so anxious that he chased out without delay. Picking a leaf from Hua jiaoshu in the front door, he blew out a tone carrying his deep love along the way. Thus, this graceful and sincere sound flied over the field, mountain and river, all the way to the girl. She was touched greatly and went back. The boy’ mother was also moved by their true love and wished them a good marriage in the end.
Happy ending to everyone! And the konoha-a blessing to all!
Translated by Brenda
