People visit a giant thangka marking the start of the annual Shoton Festival on Aug 12 in Lhasa, Xizang autonomous region. [Photo by Palden Nyima/chinadaily.com.cn]

The Shoton Festival, one of the most well-known traditional festivals in the Xizang autonomous region, commenced in Lhasa on Aug 12, attracting tourists from around the globe eager to experience the region's cultural heritage.

The festival's opening ceremony at Lhasa's Drepung Monastery featured the unveiling of a giant thangka embroidery depicting the Buddha.

Shoton, meaning "yogurt banquet" in Tibetan, began as a religious tradition where locals offered yogurt to monks after their summer retreat. Over time, it has evolved into a celebration featuring Tibetan opera, cultural performances, and various festivities.