A dragon boat is a human-powered watercraft originating from the Pearl River Delta region of China's southern Guangdong Province. These were made of teak, but in other parts of China different kinds of wood are used. It is one of a family of traditional paddled long boats found throughout Asia, Africa, the Pacific islands, and Puerto Rico. The sport of dragon boat racing has its roots in an ancient folk ritual of contending villagers, which dates back 2000 years throughout southern China, and even further to the original games of Olympia in ancient Greece. Both dragon boat racing and the ancient Olympiad included aspects of religious observances and community celebrations, along with competitions.
Dragon boat moving across the Danube river in Budapest, Hungary
World's longest dragon boat (Kambojika Putta Khemara Tarei) on display next to Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Tang dynasty painting of a dragon boat race attributed to Li Zhaodao (675-758)
Dragon boats used in "Naha Hari/Hare" race (Ryukyu Islands)
Human-powered watercraft are watercraft propelled only by human power, instead of being propelled by wind power or an engine.
Above: sweep-oar rowing a coxed pair Below: amphibious bicycle 'Cyclomer', Paris, 1932
A racing scull
Rowing a trainera
Hand-operated cable ferry