Shangtou is a ceremony held for girls to show that they have reached adulthood. The thirteen villages around Labrang hold this ceremony on the third day of the first month of the Tibetan year.
Tibetan tradition says that after turning 17 a girl has reached adulthood and is then allowed to participate in social activities, to love, and to marry.
Shangtou is a necessary ceremony for girls is emphasized by local people. Parents prepare the food and costumes for the occasion. As much money as possible is spent on this occasion because of its importance to the young girl and her family.
On the day of the ceremony the girl’s will be put into anywhere from 36 to 108 small braids. They wear splendid costumes and their best jewelry. Feasts will be held to treat the guests on the day of the celebration.
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