Ethnic Culture Village

Ethnic Culture Village

The simple and kind-hearted Fijians are also their greatest tourism asset. Here, there is no hustle and bustle of the metropolis, nor are there men and women obsessed with chasing fame and fortune. What you’ll find instead are heartwarming smiles that can melt anyone’s heart and a philosophy of life that is optimistic and content. Walking down the street, you’ll see Fijians waving at you warmly and welcoming you to their land without any reservation. So when you visit Fiji, be sure to check out their traditional villages. These villages, led by their revered chiefs, offer a deeper insight into Fijian culture and way of life.

However, before entering a village, one visitor must first be chosen as the group leader to receive the chief’s hospitality and participate in the Kava Ceremony — the leader will represent the group in drinking the kava. Remember to do so with a reverent heart, as this holy water may look a bit like muddy water. The priest will then convey the chief’s welcome speech and formally introduce the visitors to the villagers. Only after this ceremony are visitors considered friends of the villagers and allowed to freely explore the village.

Visitors can also enjoy a traditional Fijian feast, the Lovo meal, indoors on the floor of a thatched hut. This is a specially prepared Fijian dish cooked with stones, featuring fresh fish, meat, and vegetables wrapped in banana leaves. This method not only preserves the original flavors but also ensures delicious, mouthwatering taste that will have you singing its praises. After the meal, there is usually a Meke dance performance, featuring warriors holding spears and clubs, Fijian women dancing to the beat of wooden drums, and innocent children — such a harmonious and natural scene is truly unforgettable. Fiji also offers a fascinating religious ceremony known as the Fire Walking by Warriors. This sacred ritual is performed exclusively by men. When these warriors step forward and calmly walk barefoot across a bed of hot coals, tourists can’t help but hold their breath in suspense, while also feeling immense admiration for their bravery.