Cowhide boats, known in Tibetan as “Guowa”, are among the oldest and most distinctive watercraft on the Tibetan Plateau. Often called cowhide rafts, their history can be traced back to the Tubo period, with early images preserved in the murals of Potala Palace and Samye Monastery. These boats are not only practical tools for river life but also powerful symbols of Tibetan ingenuity and adaptation to nature.
Built with a simple wooden or willow frame, a traditional cowhide boat is formed by stretching and stitching together four raw yak hides. Once tightened and dried, the seams are sealed with yak or sheep fat, making the boat waterproof and remarkably durable. This straightforward yet effective design has allowed cowhide boats to survive centuries of use along Tibet’s rivers.
Structure, Size, and River Performance
A typical cowhide boat measures about 3 meters long, 2 meters wide, and 1 meter high. Larger boats can carry more than ten people, while smaller versions comfortably hold three to five passengers. Cargo is placed at the bottom, with passengers seated along the sides, and the boat is paddled by a single boatman.
Weighing only 30 to 40 kilograms, these boats are light enough to be carried on a person’s shoulders. On the water, they are collision-resistant, stable, and fast, gliding downstream smoothly—often compared to a bird flying close to the river’s surface. For generations, cowhide boats have been essential for fishing, river crossings, and daily transport, especially in communities like Junba Fishing Village.
Cowhide Boat Dance: A National Intangible Cultural Heritage
From the daily use of cowhide boats emerged a powerful artistic expression—the Cowhide Boat Dance, known in Tibetan as “Guozi” (“Guo” meaning cowhide boat, “Zi” meaning dance). This unique folk dance of Junba Fishing Village has been recognized as a national-level intangible cultural heritage.
The performance combines singing, dancing, and rhythmic percussion. Boatmen carry cowhide boats while singers perform traditional “Are” chants. By striking the boats with paddles and wooden pulleys, performers create a deep, resonant “dong dong” sound that echoes the struggle between humans and the river.
Structure and Meaning of the Cowhide Boat Dance
The Cowhide Boat Dance unfolds in four distinct sections:
- Are (Narrative Introduction): Sets the story and emotional tone
- Zhungzi (Yak Dance): Strong, grounded movements inspired by plateau life
- Picking up Hada: A gesture of respect and blessing
- Blessing Song: Wishing health, harmony, and frequent reunions
Movements such as knee trembling reflect the strength and endurance of yaks, while broad, forceful gestures express resilience and unity. The dance is both graceful and vigorous, offering a vivid window into Junba’s river-based culture.