Two boats in Anchang water town in Shaoxing, Zhejiang province take part in a competitive tug-of-war on Jan 2. [Photo/Xinhua] 

Residents in Shaoxing, Zhejiang province got ready for Chinese New Year in their unique time-honored fashion on Jan 2 with a fierce tug-of-war on the ancient canals of Anchang water town.

The traditional contest in which two boats row in opposite directions is not only a test of strength, but also a display of the boatmen's rowing skills as they push and pull on the oars of their swaying boats.

The tug-of-war is part of a centuries-old festival celebrated in the water town each year. Usually held in the twelfth month of the lunar year, the festival is an important platform for promoting Anchang's traditional folk customs and culture.

Various activities will be staged during the festival in addition to the tug-of-war. Veteran folk artists in the water town will demonstrate impressive traditional crafts, such as paper cutting, stone carving and embroidery.

Local specialties including sausages, seasoned duck in soy sauce and dried fish will also be served up to help people discover more about the food culture in Anchang.