Snake-themed rice cake delicacy delights in Tongren

A chef makes Sinan's huatianba in Tongren, Guizhou Province, on January 15, 2025. /Photo provided to CGTN

Snake-themed rice cake delicacy delights in Tongren

Photo taken on January 15, 2025 shows Sinan's huatianba rice cake delicacies. /Photo provided to CGTN

Snake-themed rice cake delicacy delights in Tongren

Photo taken on January 15, 2025 shows Sinan's huatianba rice cake delicacies. /Photo provided to CGTN

Snake-themed rice cake delicacy delights in Tongren

Photo taken on January 15, 2025 shows Sinan's huatianba rice cake delicacies. /Photo provided to CGTN

Snake-themed rice cake delicacy delights in Tongren

A chef makes Sinan's huatianba in Tongren, Guizhou Province, on January 15, 2025. /Photo provided to CGTN

Snake-themed rice cake delicacy delights in Tongren

Photo taken on January 15, 2025 shows Sinan's huatianba rice cake delicacies. /Photo provided to CGTN

As the Chinese New Year draws near, the iconic huatianba, a traditional rice cake delicacy from Sinan County in Tongren City, Guizhou Province receives a "Spring Festival" touch. This year, the skilled artisans of Sinan have added a creative twist by incorporating "snake" elements into the creation of these sweet, sticky rice cakes, blending tradition with good wishes for the upcoming year.

The main ingredients of huatianba are glutinous rice, japonica rice and plant-based dyes extracted from radish, a unique touch that sets this food item apart. The art of making huatianba has a long history in Sinan, dating back to the Ming Dynasty, having evolved into a symbol of good fortune for the locals.