Water sprays into the sky as a man holds a water pipe during the "water dragon" competition in Zhengzhai township, Jinhua, Zhejiang Province, on August 25. Photo: Gao Pan

An annual competition designed to test skill at ancient methods of firefighting was held in a township in Jinhua, Zhejiang Province, on August 25.

Teams from surrounding villages in Zhengzhai township gathered in the central square to compete. They used "water dragons" - an ancient firefighting device comprised of a wood water pump and pipe - to shoot water at targets.

In contrast to modern equipment, the old system is operated solely using manpower. Each team has about 20 men compressing the pump to shoot water from the gun. The higher, farther and more accurate the blasts of water, the better the team is.

While competing, multiple jets of water soared into the sky and rained on the crowds, drawing waves of applause.

This competition has a history of more than 550 years, and has been listed as national intangible cultural heritage.

As these villages are now all equipped with modern firefighting vehicles, the ancient skills are now merely used for sporting events. During the competition, fire engines from the local firefighting squad also take part to demonstrate the capabilities of modern equipment.

"Water dragon" operators all serve as volunteer firefighters in their villages. They keep the tradition of holding "water dragon" competitions on the first day of the eighth lunar month every year to allow the young people carry on the tradition, as well as promote fire awareness among villagers.

Global Times

An aerial view shows firefighters demonstrating their capabilities. Photo: Fang Xiaodong

Competitors are lifted above the ground by the pump. Photo: Zou Ninghao

Participants work the pump. Photo: Zou Ninghao

Jets of water shoot into the sky during the competition. Photo: Zou Ninghao