Among the many colorful traditional festivals in China, the Double Ninth Festival (Chongyang Festival) holds a significant place due to its unique cultural connotations and deep emotional foundation. Every year on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, as the cool autumn breeze arrives and the fragrance of osmanthus fills the air, people celebrate this meaningful and historically rich occasion—the Double Ninth Festival. This article will explore the origins, customs, and cultural significance of the festival to uncover the charm of this traditional holiday.
what is double ninth festival in china
The Double Ninth Festival, also known as the "Height Ascending Festival," "Double Ninth Festival,""Chung Yeung Festival" "Autumn Sun Festival," or "Chrysanthemum Festival," is one of China's traditional festivals, observed annually on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. This festival has a long history and is imbued with rich cultural meaning, reflecting the deep emotional connection of the Chinese people to nature, ancestors, and family.
The history of the Double Ninth Festival can be traced back to the Warring States period, and by the Tang Dynasty, it was officially designated as a folk festival, continuing through the ages. According to the I Ching, the number "nine" is considered a yang (positive) number. The ninth day of the ninth month brings together two yang numbers, hence the name "Double Ninth." The combination of two nines represents a return to truth and the beginning of a new cycle, leading ancient people to view this day as auspicious, suitable for climbing to high places for blessings, enjoying autumn outings, appreciating chrysanthemums, wearing dogwood, honoring ancestors, and holding banquets to wish for longevity.
One of the most important customs of the Double Ninth Festival is climbing to high places. In the golden autumn of September, the sky is high, and the air is fresh. Climbing not only brings a sense of joy and health benefits but also symbolizes rising to greater heights and wishing for longevity and well-being. This tradition was already popular during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, with no specific location for climbing, as people often ascended mountains or towers. The Qing Dynasty's Imperial Capital Times of Prosperity records: "On Double Ninth, people would enjoy drinking throughout the day near the city gates and in the suburbs, calling this activity 'bidding farewell to green,' in contrast to 'spring outings' in March."
Another custom of the Double Ninth Festival is appreciating chrysanthemums. The ninth lunar month is also known as the Chrysanthemum Month, as chrysanthemums bloom during this time, defying the frost and symbolizing resilience and purity. Since the Wei and Jin dynasties, it became fashionable to gather during the Double Ninth to drink, appreciate chrysanthemums, and compose poetry. Chrysanthemums are not only a symbol of longevity but are also considered a flower of good fortune. It was believed that drinking chrysanthemum wine could prolong life. Historical records show that the chrysanthemum wine made on this day was regarded as a longevity elixir in ancient times, believed to have medicinal properties such as clearing heat, detoxifying, improving vision, dispelling wind, soothing the liver, calming the lungs, and nourishing the kidneys.
what is the double ninth festival history
The Double Ninth Festival, as a traditional Chinese festival, carries rich historical and cultural significance, with its history tracing back to ancient times. Below is a detailed explanation of the history of the Double Ninth Festival:
Origins and Early Development
Ancient Times: The origins of the Double Ninth Festival can be traced back to ancient autumn harvest rituals for worshiping the heavens and ancestors. According to Lüshi Chunqiu·Autumn Chronicles, the ancient people would offer sacrifices to the Heavenly Emperor and their ancestors during the harvest in the ninth lunar month, expressing gratitude for their blessings. This formed the primitive basis for the Double Ninth Festival as an autumn harvest celebration.
Han Dynasty: The customs of the Double Ninth Festival gradually spread from the royal court to the general public. According to Miscellaneous Records of the Western Capital, during the Western Han Dynasty, palace attendants already had the tradition of wearing dogwood, eating "peng'er" (similar to Double Ninth cakes), and drinking chrysanthemum wine on the ninth day of the ninth month. These practices symbolized wishes for longevity and protection against evil.
Three Kingdoms Period: The Double Ninth Festival began to be celebrated as an official holiday. In A Letter from Cao Pi to Zhong Yao on the Ninth Day, Cao Pi explicitly mentioned banquet activities held on the ninth day of the ninth month, marking the festival's widespread popularity among the common people.
Flourishing during the Tang Dynasty and Beyond
Tang Dynasty: The Double Ninth Festival was officially recognized as a folk festival and saw considerable enrichment and development. During the Tang Dynasty, both the imperial court and the public celebrated the festival with various activities such as mountain climbing, chrysanthemum appreciation, and drinking chrysanthemum wine. These customs have been passed down through the ages and remain key elements of the festival today.
After the Song Dynasty: The customs of the Double Ninth Festival became even more vibrant and diverse. During the Song Dynasty, chrysanthemum appreciation became a popular custom, with a wide variety of chrysanthemum species being cultivated. This tradition flourished, reaching a peak of popularity. In the Ming and Qing dynasties, the festival customs continued to thrive, with grand celebrations held both inside and outside the royal palace.
Modern Significance and Continuation
Respect for the Elderly: In 1989, the Chinese government designated the ninth day of the ninth lunar month as "Elderly Day," encouraging society to foster a culture of respecting, caring for, loving, and helping the elderly. This measure has given the Double Ninth Festival new meaning and value in modern times.
Cultural Heritage: As an integral part of traditional Chinese culture, the Double Ninth Festival carries rich cultural and historical significance. It is not only a festival celebrating the harvest but also a moment to preserve traditions and promote virtues.
double ninth festival origin
The Double Ninth Festival, also known as the "Double Yang Festival," can trace its origins back to the pre-Qin period, closely connected with the ancient Chinese worship of nature and astronomical observations. According to the I Ching, the number nine is considered the extreme of yang (positive energy), and with two nines coinciding on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, the festival is called "Double Ninth." This day was regarded as a symbol of good fortune, representing harmony between heaven and earth, and the balance of yin and yang.
Initially, the Double Ninth Festival was a day for the ancient people to celebrate the harvest and offer sacrifices to both heaven and their ancestors, expressing gratitude for the blessings bestowed by the Heavenly Emperor and their forebears. During the Han Dynasty, customs such as wearing dogwood, eating "peng'er" (a type of cake), and drinking chrysanthemum wine emerged in the royal court, symbolizing wishes for longevity and protection against evil. These practices gradually spread among the common people, transforming the Double Ninth Festival into a multifaceted celebration involving ancestor worship, mountain climbing, chrysanthemum appreciation, and drinking.
The origins of the Double Ninth Festival and its historical context can be traced back to ancient times, with ties to the legend of the Emperor Yuan attaining the Tao. According to existing records, the earliest mention of customs associated with the Double Ninth Festival can be found in Lüshi Chunqiu·Autumn Chronicles. It is noted that each year in the ninth lunar month, the court would command officials responsible for agriculture to hold a grand sacrificial ceremony following the autumn harvest. This ceremony not only included giving thanks and celebrating the harvest of the five major crops but also the solemn process of storing the newly harvested grain in sacred granaries, reflecting the people's reverence for natural deities.
On this day, not only would there be grand ceremonies to honor the Heavenly Emperor, but also ancestral rites to express gratitude for the protection and blessings of both heaven and ancestors. These sacrificial activities represent the original form of the Double Ninth Festival as an ancient ritual holiday, embodying the people's deep respect for the harvest and the gods.
At the same time, the Double Ninth Festival was accompanied by large feasts. These feasts originated from pre-Qin harvest banquets, and over time, they evolved to include more meanings of family reunions and festive celebrations. People would gather to share food and exchange conversations, enhancing family and friendship bonds, while also expressing their love and hope for life.
what is the legend of the double ninth festival
The stories surrounding the Double Ninth Festival are long and rich, with one of the most representative being the legend of Huan Jing slaying the demon.
According to the tale, during the Eastern Han Dynasty, a severe plague broke out along the banks of the Ru River, claiming many lives. Huan Jing's parents were among those who perished from the illness. Determined to eliminate the threat and protect the people, Huan Jing set out to seek a master and learn the art of exorcism. After enduring numerous hardships, he finally found the powerful immortal master Fei Changfang. Moved by Huan Jing's sincerity, Fei Changfang accepted him as a disciple and taught him the swordsmanship necessary to vanquish demons.
When Huan Jing had completed his training, Fei Changfang warned him that the plague demon would return on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. Armed with this knowledge, Huan Jing set out for his hometown, riding on a celestial crane and carrying dogwood leaves and chrysanthemum wine that Fei Changfang had given him. On the day of the ninth month, Huan Jing led the villagers to a nearby mountain, distributing the dogwood leaves for everyone to wear and encouraging them to drink chrysanthemum wine to ward off the plague. Huan Jing then descended the mountain, armed with his enchanted sword, and fought a fierce battle with the plague demon, ultimately slaying it.
From that day on, people commemorated Huan Jing’s heroic deed of slaying the demon by climbing mountains, wearing dogwood, and drinking chrysanthemum wine on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. This custom eventually evolved into the modern Double Ninth Festival.
In addition to this legend, there are other stories linking the Double Ninth Festival with chrysanthemums and longevity, further enriching the cultural and mystical atmosphere of the holiday.
why is the double ninth festival celebrated
The Double Ninth Festival, as a traditional Chinese holiday, carries profound cultural significance and multiple layers of meaning. Below is a detailed explanation of the reasons behind the celebration of this festival:
- Worship of Nature and Astronomical Observations
Worship of Celestial Phenomena: The Double Ninth Festival originated from the ancient people's reverence for celestial phenomena. In the I Ching, the number nine is considered a yang number. On the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, the sun and the moon are both considered to be at their yang peak, thus the day is called "Double Ninth" or "Chongyang." This day is viewed as the moment when the yang energy is at its strongest, and the ancients believed that it symbolized harmony between heaven and earth, as well as balance between yin and yang, making it an auspicious day.
- Harvest and Ancestral Worship
Celebration of Harvest: The Double Ninth Festival was originally a harvest celebration. During this time, as the autumn harvest was completed, people would offer sacrifices to the Heavenly Emperor and their ancestors, expressing gratitude for the blessings of nature and their ancestors' protection. This custom of celebrating the harvest and giving thanks reflects the ancient people's deep respect for nature and their love of life.
Ancestral Worship: The Double Ninth Festival is also a day for ancestral worship. On this day, people visit the graves of their ancestors to pay their respects and honor them. This act of remembering and venerating ancestors is a reflection of the Chinese tradition of filial piety and respect for the elderly.
- Health and Longevity
Praying for Health and Longevity: The Double Ninth Festival includes customs such as mountain climbing, appreciating chrysanthemums, and drinking chrysanthemum wine, all of which are related to the desire for good health and longevity. Climbing mountains helps to strengthen the body and clear the mind, while chrysanthemums, which bloom in the autumn, symbolize resilience and longevity. Drinking chrysanthemum wine is believed to have medicinal properties that can help detoxify the body and prolong life.
- Respect for the Elderly
Passing on Virtues: Over time, the Double Ninth Festival has come to incorporate the cultural values of respecting, caring for, and assisting the elderly. In 1989, the Chinese government designated the ninth day of the ninth lunar month as "Senior Citizens' Day," promoting a spirit of respect and care for the elderly throughout society. This initiative has helped to elevate the festival's importance as a day to pass on and promote the traditional virtues of the Chinese people.
- Culture and Entertainment
Enriching Cultural Life: During the Double Ninth Festival, various cultural activities are held across the country, such as chrysanthemum exhibitions, mountain climbing competitions, and poetry recitations. These activities not only enrich people’s cultural lives but also strengthen emotional bonds between individuals.
This rich blend of cultural elements and traditions makes the Double Ninth Festival a significant occasion in Chinese society.
double ninth festival activities/Traditional Customs
Mountain Climbing:
- Form of Activity: Climbing mountains is one of the most important activities during the Double Ninth Festival. People typically choose to ascend high mountains or tall towers.
- Cultural Significance: The act of mountain climbing symbolizes progress, step-by-step elevation, health, and longevity. It is also beneficial for cultivating one's character and strengthening the body.
Appreciating Chrysanthemums:
- Form of Activity: The ninth lunar month is the season when chrysanthemums are in full bloom. People often organize chrysanthemum festivals to appreciate various types of chrysanthemums.
- Cultural Significance: In Chinese culture, chrysanthemums symbolize longevity and resilience. The custom of appreciating chrysanthemums stems from admiration for the flower and its qualities.
Wearing Dogwood (Zhuyu):
- Form of Activity: Dogwood is a plant with a strong fragrance that ancient people believed could ward off evil and bring good luck. During the Double Ninth Festival, people would pick dogwood and place it at their doors or wear it on their bodies.
- Cultural Significance: The custom of wearing dogwood originated from the worship and belief in the plant's protective powers, reflecting the ancient people's desire for good fortune and safety.
Drinking Chrysanthemum Wine:
- Form of Activity: Chrysanthemum wine is made from chrysanthemum flowers and has a cool, sweet taste with various health benefits. During the Double Ninth Festival, people drink chrysanthemum wine to celebrate the occasion.
- Cultural Significance: The custom of drinking chrysanthemum wine stems from admiration for the flower and the tradition of winemaking, embodying the ancient people's longing for and pursuit of a good life.
Eating Chongyang Cake:
- Form of Activity: Chongyang cake is a type of pastry made from rice flour or glutinous rice, with various shapes and rich flavors. During the Double Ninth Festival, people eat Chongyang cake to celebrate the holiday.
- Cultural Significance: The custom of eating Chongyang cake originates from celebrating the harvest and looking forward to a new life. It symbolizes rising step-by-step and having a sweet and prosperous life.
Ancestral Worship:
- Form of Activity: The Double Ninth Festival is one of the four major ancestral worship festivals in China. On this day, people honor their ancestors to express respect and remembrance.
- Cultural Significance: The custom of ancestral worship stems from reverence and gratitude for one’s forebears, reflecting the traditional virtues of filial piety, respect for the elderly, and remembrance of the departed that are deeply rooted in Chinese culture.
double ninth festival traditions
The Evolution of the Double Ninth Festival
The Double Ninth Festival, as it has evolved over time, has incorporated a variety of folk customs and rich cultural meanings, making it a multi-faceted traditional Chinese festival. Common ways of celebrating the festival include outings to enjoy the scenery, climbing mountains for better views, appreciating chrysanthemums, gathering medicinal herbs, hosting banquets to honor the elderly, eating Double Ninth cakes, preparing medicinal wines for health, and drinking chrysanthemum wine. The festival occurs during the time when "pure air rises and turbid air descends." The higher the altitude, the more pure energy is believed to gather, leading to the custom of climbing mountains to enjoy the fresh air. In the golden autumn of the ninth month, the sky is clear, and the weather is cool, making it a perfect season for hiking and achieving physical and mental well-being. The festival is rich in folk customs and cultural significance.
Sun-Drying Harvests
The Double Ninth Festival is the best time for autumn appreciation, and some mountainous villages in southern China still maintain the unique tradition of "sun-drying the harvest." Visiting rural areas to enjoy local customs and observe the sun-drying harvest has become a popular rural tourism activity. "Sun-drying" is a typical agricultural custom with strong regional characteristics. In mountainous areas of Hunan, Guangxi, Anhui, Jiangxi, and other provinces, villagers, due to the complex terrain and lack of flat land, use the space in front of their houses, their rooftops, and even window sills to dry crops. Over time, this practice became a traditional agricultural custom. This unique way of drying crops has inspired painters and photographers, who have captured these poetic scenes under the name "sun-drying."
Nine Emperors Ritual (Jiu Huang Hui)
In ancient times, the ritual of worshiping stars, known as the Nine Emperors Ritual, was popular in Guangdong, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Yunnan, and other regions. This ritual took place from the first to the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. The Nine Emperors are associated with the worship of stars, especially the Big Dipper. The custom originated from people's reverence for the stars, believing that worshipping the Nine Emperors could prolong life. According to the Book of Jade Seals, the first to the ninth days of the ninth month are the auspicious days of the Nine Emperors. During this time, people fast and practice rituals, believing these days bring immense merit. The belief in the Nine Emperors has greatly influenced local customs, leading to the popularization of the star-worshiping ritual.
Longevity Banquets
Another important tradition is the hosting of banquets to pray for longevity. These banquets, which express people's wishes for the elderly to live long and healthy lives, were widespread in ancient China. The custom of longevity banquets has been documented in ancient literature, such as in The Western Capital Miscellany from the Han Dynasty: “On the ninth day of the ninth month, people wear dogwood, eat herbal cakes, and drink chrysanthemum wine, which is said to bring long life.” Large-scale banquets in the past were originally celebrations of the harvest and were combined with rituals of offering sacrifices to heaven and ancestors, gradually incorporating the theme of longevity.
Flying Kites
Flying kites is a popular custom during the Double Ninth Festival in southern China. In ancient times, people not only climbed mountains but also flew kites on this day. The custom is rooted in the belief that flying kites during the festival helps dispel bad luck. The higher and farther the kite flies, the more bad luck is believed to be carried away. In some cases, people even deliberately break the string, allowing the kite to disappear into the sky, symbolizing the release of misfortune. Alternatively, flying kites is also believed to "release good fortune," with the kite representing the rising of blessings and luck.
Mountain Climbing
Mountain climbing is a long-standing tradition of the Double Ninth Festival, which is why the festival is also known as the "Climbing Festival." In ancient times, climbing mountains in autumn was considered the counterpart to spring outings. The custom has three main origins: mountain worship in ancient times, the belief that "pure air rises and turbid air descends," and the desire to ascend to higher ground and absorb the pure energy.
Eating Double Ninth Cakes
Historical records show that Double Ninth cakes, also known as flower cakes, chrysanthemum cakes, or five-colored cakes, were made in various forms without a fixed method. On the morning of the ninth day of the ninth month, cakes were placed on children's foreheads while blessings for their success were recited. Elaborate cakes were sometimes made with nine layers in the shape of a pagoda, and small red flags were inserted into the cakes as a substitute for dogwood, symbolizing the wishes for prosperity and happiness.
Worshipping the Sea God
In coastal regions such as Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan, worshipping the sea god during the Double Ninth Festival is a significant tradition.
Ancestral Worship
The Double Ninth Festival is one of China’s four major ancestral worship festivals. In southern China, the custom of worshipping ancestors during the festival remains prevalent. Both the act of worship and climbing mountains serve to strengthen cultural identity and family cohesion. Traditionally, Qingming is known as the "spring ancestor worship," and Double Ninth as the "autumn ancestor worship."
Chrysanthemum Appreciation
The tradition of appreciating chrysanthemums during the Double Ninth Festival dates back centuries, making it also known as the Chrysanthemum Festival. The appreciation of chrysanthemums has deep cultural roots, as chrysanthemums, which bloom despite frost, symbolize resilience and longevity. Since the Wei and Jin dynasties, gathering to drink wine, appreciate chrysanthemums, and compose poetry on this day became a popular social activity.
Farewell to Youth
In ancient China, the Double Ninth Festival was seen as the counterpart to the Qingming Festival. Just as people enjoyed outdoor activities during the spring, the Double Ninth Festival marked a final outdoor excursion before the winter months. This custom is known as "Farewell to Youth."
Drinking Chrysanthemum Wine
Drinking chrysanthemum wine is another traditional activity during the festival, symbolizing vitality and longevity. Chrysanthemum wine is considered a "lucky wine" with health benefits, such as improving eyesight and clearing the mind.
Wearing Dogwood
In ancient times, wearing dogwood was a popular custom during the Double Ninth Festival. Dogwood was believed to ward off evil spirits and promote health, thanks to its strong fragrance and medicinal properties.
what do people do on double ninth festival
Domestic
Guangdong: In ancient times, the region of Guangdong would hold the “Nine Emperor Festival” during the ninth month of the lunar calendar, which included rituals for worshipping the stars. In Guangzhou, people celebrate the Double Ninth Festival by hiking up Baiyun Mountain to enjoy the autumn scenery and for physical exercise. In Wuchuan, people host banquets, including a “Respect for the Elderly” feast. In Huaiji County, the festival is seen as the day when the Yuan Emperor attained enlightenment, and people hold events to worship deities and fulfill vows. In Yangjiang, a notable tradition during the Double Ninth Festival is flying kites.
Hong Kong and Macau: In the customs of Hong Kong and Macau, Qingming is considered the "spring memorial," while the Double Ninth is the "autumn memorial." The tradition of hiking and ancestral worship during the Double Ninth Festival remains strong. Today, the ancient Double Ninth Festival in Hong Kong and Macau has evolved into a more diverse celebration.
Guangxi: In Long'an County, on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, cattle and sheep are left to graze freely. The local saying goes: “On the ninth day of the ninth month, cattle and sheep guard themselves.” Just as Qingming is the spring memorial, the Double Ninth is considered the autumn memorial, and in southern China, the tradition of “hill climbing” to honor ancestors continues today, preserving the time-honored values of reverence for ancestors and reflection on family heritage.
Fujian: In Haicheng County, people fly kites during the Double Ninth Festival, referring to it as “wind rafts.” It's believed that the ninth day of the ninth month marks the ascension of the sea goddess Mazu. Many locals visit Mazu temples in Meizhou or ancestral temples and palaces dedicated to the sea goddess to pray for blessings.
Hainan: In Hainan, traditions for the Double Ninth Festival include climbing mountains for panoramic views, wearing dogwood, giving “Double Ninth cakes,” “catching mountain cats,” and washing with mugwort-infused water.
Jiangsu: In Nanjing, people make flags from five-colored paper and place them in their courtyards. In Changzhou, the traditional food for the Double Ninth Festival is a type of noodle called "camel hooves." In Wuxi, people eat Double Ninth cakes and a dish called “Nine Delicacies Soup.”
Shanghai: In Shanghai, the Yu Garden hosts a chrysanthemum exhibition for the Double Ninth Festival, where prizes are awarded based on creativity, elegance, and rarity. Recently, Yangpu District in Shanghai has launched a series of activities called “Joy in Double Ninth” to promote respect and care for the elderly.
Zhejiang: In Shaoxing, people visit each other during the Double Ninth Festival. In Tonglu County, people prepare pig and sheep offerings for ancestors on the ninth day of the ninth month, marking it as the “autumn memorial.” Additionally, during this festival, people make sticky rice dumplings, called “Double Ninth dumplings,” and exchange them with one another.
Jiangxi: In Wuyuan County, people celebrate the “Autumn Harvest Festival” on the ninth day of the ninth month. The village of Huangling in Wuyuan still preserves the traditional custom of drying crops in the autumn, which results in a visually stunning scene as fresh vegetables and fruits are laid out to dry for storage.
Anhui: In Tongling County, the Double Ninth Festival is known as the “Dragon Candle Festival,” which includes ceremonies for welcoming the mountain gods. People perform a bamboo horse dance, which is said to drive away plagues. Recently, Hefei has organized events to honor and care for the elderly on the Double Ninth Festival.
Yunnan: In recent years, Kunming, Yunnan has hosted the “Our Festival · Double Ninth Festival” event to celebrate the occasion.
Hubei: In Wuchang County, people brew wine on the Double Ninth, which is said to be particularly clear and can be stored for a long time without spoiling. In Yingcheng County, the Double Ninth Festival is a time for fulfilling vows, and every family offers sacrifices to the local earth and field gods.
Sichuan: In ancient times, scholars from Nanxi County gathered at Censhan Tower on Longteng Mountain during the Double Ninth Festival to commemorate the poet Cen Shen, calling it the “Cen Gong Festival.” Traditionally, during the Double Ninth period, people make rice wine from glutinous rice. There’s a saying: “Double Ninth wine, fragrant and sweet.”
Hebei: In Xianghe County, families with marital connections exchange gifts during the Double Ninth Festival, calling it “Chasing the Festival.” In Yongping Prefecture, the weather on the Double Ninth Festival is used to predict future rain. If it rains on this day, it is said to rain on several subsequent days as well. In Quzhou County, where there are no mountains, locals climb the city walls during the Double Ninth Festival.
Shandong: In the northern parts of Changyi, people drink spicy radish soup on the Double Ninth Festival, with a local saying: “Drink radish soup, and the whole family stays healthy.” In Juancheng, the Double Ninth Festival is considered the birthday of the God of Wealth, and families bake flatbread to offer as sacrifices. In Zouping, people hold memorial ceremonies for the famous scholar Fan Zhongyan on the Double Ninth. In the past, dyeing workshops and distilleries also offered sacrifices to the vat god on this day. In Tengzhou, daughters who have been married for less than three years are traditionally discouraged from returning to their natal homes for the Double Ninth, with a local belief saying: “Return home on Double Ninth, and it’ll bring bad luck to your in-laws.”
Shaanxi: In the rural areas of Shaanxi, every household places dogwood at their doors on the Double Ninth, and neighbors exchange gifts. In Xixiang County, friends and relatives exchange chrysanthemum flowers and cakes, while scholars enjoy wine and poetry. It’s said that on this day, women can chew dogwood leaves to cure heart pain.
Shanxi: In the southern parts of Shanxi, there is a long-standing tradition of climbing to high places on the ninth day of the ninth month. People enjoy the beautiful scenery and visit historical landmarks. This practice is still celebrated today, with famous sayings passed down through generations, such as: “Heaven and earth are at their finest; we should climb high,” “The east wind can’t be stopped; we ascend the peak,” and “In the ninth month, the skies clear, and farmers celebrate the harvest.”
Henan: In 2010, the China Folk Literature and Art Association named Xixia County in Nanyang as the “Hometown of Double Ninth Culture” and established the country's only “Double Ninth Cultural Research Center.” Every year, the county hosts the “China · Xixia Double Ninth Cultural Festival” on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month.
International
In countries influenced by Chinese culture, the Double Ninth Festival is also observed:
South Korea: In ancient Korea, the Double Ninth was referred to as “Double Nine,” with traditions dating back to the Silla Dynasty, where people would climb towers and recite poetry on this day. By the Goryeo Dynasty, Double Ninth feasts had even become state customs. Activities included eating flower pancakes, flower cakes, playing traditional games, and flying kites.
Japan: The Double Ninth Festival was introduced to Japan during the Heian period. Every year, on the ninth day of the ninth month, aristocrats would hold chrysanthemum banquets at the imperial court. On the eve of the festival, people would place cotton cloth on chrysanthemums, and the next day, after the dew had dampened the cloth, they would use it to wipe their bodies as a way to pray for longevity. Other customs include eating eggplant and chestnut rice to honor the chrysanthemums.
United States: In cities with significant Chinese populations, like San Francisco, flower shops offer a wide variety of chrysanthemums for sale during the Double Ninth Festival. Some bakeries also sell Double Ninth cakes, and many Chinese organizations hold banquets to honor the elderly. In some elderly care centers, volunteers visit and assist the residents.
what do you eat on the double ninth festival
Traditional Foods for the Double Ninth Festival
During the Double Ninth Festival, people enjoy a variety of traditional foods to celebrate the occasion. Here are some of the most common foods associated with this festival:
1. Double Ninth Cake (Chongyang Cake)
- Introduction: The Double Ninth Cake, also known as “Flower Cake,” “Chrysanthemum Cake,” or “Five-Colored Cake,” is one of the most iconic foods of the Double Ninth Festival.
- Symbolism: The word “cake” (糕) sounds like “high” (高) in Chinese, symbolizing the wish for rising prosperity and good fortune. It is common to make Double Ninth Cake for elderly people during the festival as a gesture of respect and care for the elderly.
- Varieties and Preparation: There is no fixed recipe for Double Ninth Cake. Any soft cake eaten during the festival is referred to as Double Ninth Cake. For example, in Shanghai, people enjoy soft cakes like "Song Cake" and "Honey Cake," while in Fuzhou, a type of cake called “Jiu Chong Ke” is popular. The ingredients vary but often include glutinous rice flour, regular rice, red bean paste, and lotus seeds. The cakes can be round, square, or diamond-shaped and are often adorned with fruits, nuts, or flower petals, making them colorful and decorative.
2. Lamb Noodles
- Introduction: In northern China, it is a tradition to eat lamb noodles during the Double Ninth Festival.
- Symbolism: The word “lamb” (羊) sounds like “yang” (阳) in Chinese, which corresponds to the "yang" in the Double Ninth Festival. The noodles symbolize longevity, so eating lamb noodles during this festival represents the wish for good health and a long life.
- Nutritional Benefits: Lamb is considered warming and nourishing, with benefits for the spleen and stomach and the ability to boost energy and blood. It is an ideal food for autumn. Combining lamb with noodles creates a dish that is both delicious and nutritious.
3. Chrysanthemum Wine
- Introduction: Chrysanthemum wine is another significant beverage for the Double Ninth Festival.
- Symbolism: In ancient times, chrysanthemum flowers were believed to have life-extending properties. Drinking chrysanthemum wine on the Double Ninth Festival was thought to ward off evil spirits and bring long life.
- Preparation and Consumption: Chrysanthemum wine is made by fermenting chrysanthemum flowers with glutinous rice and yeast. The wine has a golden color, a fragrant aroma, and a sweet taste. Friends and family gather to enjoy chrysanthemum wine and admire chrysanthemum flowers, creating a festive and unique atmosphere.
4. Other Foods
- Ciba (Glutinous Rice Cake): In southwestern China, it is customary to make and eat ciba during the Double Ninth Festival. Ciba is made by steaming glutinous rice and pounding it into a soft, sticky cake. It is chewy and sweet, making it a delightful treat.
- Longevity Noodles: Longevity noodles symbolize long life, and eating them during the Double Ninth Festival is a traditional custom, especially in northern China.
- Crab: Crabs are especially plump and rich in flavor around the time of the Double Ninth Festival, making them a popular seasonal delicacy.
- Apples, Chestnuts, and Peanuts: These foods are also commonly eaten during the Double Ninth Festival, symbolizing peace, health, and long life.
In summary, the traditional foods enjoyed during the Double Ninth Festival are diverse and rich in symbolism. These dishes not only satisfy people’s appetites but also carry their hopes for a prosperous life and blessings for their families.
double ninth festival meaning in chinese culture
The Cultural Significance of the Double Ninth Festival in China
The Double Ninth Festival (Chongyang Festival) holds deep cultural significance in Chinese society, reflected in the following aspects:
1. The Traditional Virtue of Respecting and Caring for the Elderly
- Respecting the Elderly: The Double Ninth Festival is also known as "Elderly Day" or "Respect for the Aged Day," highlighting the Chinese tradition of honoring and caring for the elderly. On this day, special attention is given to the lives of elderly people, with various ways to express respect and affection.
- Family Harmony: The festival emphasizes family harmony, advocating for younger generations to show filial piety and respect toward their elders. This family ethic helps maintain social harmony and stability.
2. Gratitude Toward Nature in Agricultural Culture
- Harvest Celebration: The Double Ninth Festival originated from ancient celebrations of the harvest, reflecting gratitude and reverence toward nature in agricultural societies. People hold ceremonies to express thanks for nature’s blessings on this day.
- Nature Worship: The festival is closely connected to nature worship. Activities such as hiking and admiring chrysanthemums allow people to appreciate the beauty of nature, expressing their reverence for it.
3. Folk Beliefs in Blessing and Disaster Prevention
- Ward Off Evil: In ancient times, the Double Ninth Festival included customs for warding off evil and preventing disasters, such as wearing dogwood plants or drinking chrysanthemum wine. These activities symbolized protection from harm and prayers for peace.
- Longevity Prayers: The Double Ninth Festival, with its association to the number nine, signifies longevity. People participate in activities such as hiking and admiring chrysanthemums to pray for long life, expressing their hopes for a healthy and prosperous life.
4. Cultural Heritage and National Identity
- Traditional Festival: As one of China’s traditional festivals, the Double Ninth Festival carries rich cultural connotations and historical memories, serving as an important vehicle for national identity and cultural continuity.
- Poetry and Literature: Over the centuries, many famous poets and scholars have written poems and verses in celebration of the Double Ninth Festival. These works not only capture the festive atmosphere but also reflect people's pursuit of a better life.
5. Modern Significance and Social Value
- New Trends in Caring for the Elderly: With the development of society, the Double Ninth Festival has gradually acquired new meanings, becoming a day that promotes the broader social trend of respecting and caring for the elderly. Across the country, various activities are organized to create a strong atmosphere of respect for the elderly.
- Promoting Family Harmony and Social Cohesion: The Double Ninth Festival emphasizes family harmony and social unity, helping to strengthen emotional bonds among family members and contribute to overall social stability.
In conclusion, the Double Ninth Festival is a holiday filled with warmth and respect. It reminds us to enjoy the beauty of autumn while remembering our ancestors, caring for our elders, and passing down the excellent traditions of Chinese culture. As time moves forward, let us continue to uphold and promote the values of the Double Ninth Festival, ensuring that the spirit of respect for the elderly and cultural continuity flows in the heart of every Chinese person.
References
- Why is the Double Ninth Festival Designated as Elderly Day? The pronunciation of “nine-nine” is a homophone for “long-lasting.” *People’s Daily Online* [Cited 2018-10-10].
- Intangible Cultural Heritage of China: The Double Ninth Festival. *Sina* [Cited 2018-11-1].
- How Much Do You Know About the Origin of the Double Ninth Festival? *Sina* [Cited 2018-10-9].
- Explanation of the Draft Amendment to the "Law of the People's Republic of China on the Protection of the Rights and Interests of the Elderly." *China National People's Congress Network* [Cited 2020-09-25].
- The Customs and Taboos of the Double Ninth Festival. *Phoenix* [Cited 2018-10-10].
- The Origin and Customs of the Double Ninth Festival. *China.com* [Cited 2018-07-7].
- What Is the Double Ninth Festival Celebrating? *Sina* [Cited 2019-10-6].
- The Double Ninth Festival. *China Intangible Cultural Heritage Network* [Cited 2019-10-6].
- What Are the Customs of the Double Ninth Festival? A Review of Traditional and Regional Customs of the Double Ninth Festival. *China.com* [Cited 2018-10-10].
- Poetry Enthusiasts in Tangshan Climb Heights on the Double Ninth Festival to Compose Poetry. *Phoenix* [Cited 2018-10-14].
