Dou Cao (Grass Blade Duel)

Each player picks a long blade of grass or a similar plant stem, preferably one with a tough, fibrous rib running down the middle.

The two players hook their blades together in the middle, forming a small loop like linked fingers.

On a signal, both players pull steadily outward at the same time, keeping the pull even rather than jerking suddenly.

The blade that snaps or slips loose first loses that round, while the unbroken blade's owner wins.

Players often test several blades beforehand, since thicker or fresher stems tend to hold up better under the pull.

Winners frequently keep their strongest blade to challenge a new opponent, turning the game into an informal knockout contest.