The Double Ninth Festival, celebrated annually on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, is a festival that exquisitely blends tradition, nature, and family. Rooted deeply in ancient Chinese philosophy, the number nine held a unique and elevated status. In the profound wisdom of the I Ching, it was considered the yangest of yang numbers, symbolizing longevity, prosperity, and auspiciousness. This numerical significance, when intertwined with the festival’s autumnal timing—a season associated with harvest, reflection, and the transition towards colder months—created a cultural cornerstone centered around respecting elders and seeking well – being. While its core themes of honoring the elderly, ascending heights, and admiring chrysanthemums remain consistent across the vast expanse of China, the way people celebrate this cherished festival can vary greatly from region to region. Each area, shaped by its distinct local history, rich culture, and unique geography, has developed its own set of customs and traditions, making the festival a vibrant tapestry of diverse celebrations. Exploring these regional differences not only adds depth and richness to our understanding of the festival but also vividly demonstrates how deeply rooted it is in the lives of people across the country.
In northern China, particularly in bustling metropolises like Beijing and Tianjin, the Double Ninth Festival is often celebrated with grandeur and enthusiasm, most notably through large – scale chrysanthemum exhibitions. This tradition traces its origins back to the glorious Tang Dynasty, a period renowned for its cultural prosperity. During that time, the imperial courts first began cultivating chrysanthemums, drawn to their symbolic resilience in the face of the approaching winter. These beautiful flowers, with their vibrant colors and elegant forms, soon became a significant part of the festival’s celebrations.
Today, parks such as Beijing’s majestic Temple of Heaven and Tianjin’s expansive Water Park are transformed into veritable seas of chrysanthemums during the festival. Thousands upon thousands of flowers are artfully arranged in intricate displays that are a feast for the eyes. Some are shaped into lifelike animals, capturing the grace and movement of creatures like dragons, phoenixes, and lions. Others are fashioned into replicas of traditional Chinese buildings, showcasing the architectural splendor of ancient pagodas, temples, and palaces. Special competitions are held, where expert judges award prizes to the most vibrant, healthy, and uniquely – shaped blooms. These competitions draw enthusiasts who spend months painstakingly nurturing their prized plants, carefully tending to every aspect of their growth, from watering and fertilizing to pruning and shaping.
On the festival day, families flock to these parks, creating a lively and joyous atmosphere. Young parents push strollers, guiding their curious children through the floral displays. They patiently explain the significance of the chrysanthemums and the festival itself, passing down cultural knowledge from one generation to the next. Elderly relatives are gently helped along by their loved ones, their faces lit up with smiles as they take in the beauty of the flowers. Everywhere, people are taking photos, capturing memories of this special day amidst the blooms.
Many parks also host a variety of folk performances, adding an extra layer of excitement to the festivities. Dragon dances, with their long, colorful bodies undulating through the air, are a sight to behold. Skilled performers, hidden beneath the dragon’s costume, move in unison, making the mythical creature come alive. Lion dances, equally energetic, feature performers in elaborate lion costumes, mimicking the movements of real lions as they leap, spin, and interact with the audience. Traditional music shows, with musicians playing instruments like the guzheng, pipa, and erhu, fill the air with melodious tunes that transport listeners back in time.
After enjoying the flowers and performances, families often head to nearby restaurants to partake in traditional cuisine. Double Ninth Cake, a staple of the festival, takes center stage. With its tiered structure resembling a mountain, it symbolizes climbing to new heights, both literally and metaphorically. The cake is often decorated with osmanthus, a fragrant autumn flower that adds a delightful aroma and flavor. Alongside the cake, other traditional dishes are served, allowing families to enjoy a full – fledged celebration of food, culture, and family bonds.
In southern China, especially in provinces like Guangdong and Fujian, the tradition of ascending heights takes on a unique form. Due to the area’s relatively flatter terrain compared to the mountainous north, and the historical importance of towers and pagodas as religious and cultural centers, many people in these regions choose to climb towers or pagodas instead of mountains.
For example, in the vibrant city of Guangzhou, the Canton Tower—one of the tallest towers in China—becomes a popular destination on the Double Ninth Festival. Families and friends eagerly take the elevator to the top of the tower, where they are greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The sight of the sprawling urban landscape, with its modern skyscrapers, bustling streets, and meandering rivers, is truly awe – inspiring. Some visitors even bring picnic baskets filled with Double Ninth Cake and chrysanthemum tea. They find a comfortable spot, perhaps on one of the observation decks, and spend the afternoon chatting, sharing stories, and taking in the sights. The gentle autumn breeze, combined with the sweet taste of the tea and the soft texture of the cake, makes for a perfect and relaxing day.
In Fujian, the ancient pagodas in cities like Quanzhou and Xiamen hold a special place in the hearts of locals during the festival. These pagodas, which have stood the test of time for hundreds of years, are not only architectural marvels but also symbols of the region’s rich history and culture. Climbing these pagodas is seen as a way to connect with the past, to feel the footsteps of generations that have come before. Locals believe that each step represents overcoming obstacles, and the higher one ascends, the greater the blessings they will receive in the coming year. As they climb, they often pause to admire the intricate carvings and designs on the pagoda walls, which tell stories of ancient legends, religious beliefs, and local traditions.
In the eastern coastal regions, such as Zhejiang and Jiangsu provinces, the Double Ninth Festival is closely intertwined with water, a connection that can be traced back to the area’s extensive canal systems and rich maritime heritage. Many people in these areas choose to take boat trips on lakes or rivers, allowing them to enjoy the autumn scenery from a unique perspective.
In the picturesque city of Hangzhou, families rent boats on the famous West Lake. As they cruise along the calm waters, they pass by the lake’s iconic bridges, each with its own story and charm, and the lush, green islands that dot the lake. The chrysanthemums that line the shores add a splash of color to the already beautiful landscape. Some boats even serve traditional snacks like Double Ninth Cake and osmanthus cakes, allowing passengers to indulge in the local cuisine while taking in the views. The gentle rocking of the boat, the sound of the water lapping against the hull, and the peaceful surroundings create a serene and relaxing atmosphere.
In addition to boat trips, coastal regions also have a long – standing tradition of flying kites on the Double Ninth Festival. The kites, often decorated with intricate images of chrysanthemums or symbols of longevity, are flown high into the autumn sky. This act symbolizes the desire to reach new heights, both in terms of personal growth and good fortune. Communities play an active role in this tradition by organizing kite – making workshops. Here, children have the opportunity to learn the art of crafting kites using bamboo frames and colorful silk. Under the guidance of experienced artisans, they carefully assemble the kites, painting them with their own designs and adding finishing touches. These workshops not only teach a centuries – old art form but also foster a sense of community and creativity among the participants.
In the western regions of China, such as Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, the Double Ninth Festival is celebrated with a strong emphasis on local ethnic cultures. In Sichuan, the Qiang and Tibetan ethnic groups have their own unique and colorful customs for the festival. The Qiang people, known for their rich cultural heritage, hold traditional dance performances. Men and women, dressed in their most beautiful and elaborate ethnic costumes, adorned with intricate embroidery, beads, and feathers, gather in open spaces. To the rhythmic sound of drums and flutes, they perform dances that depict scenes from daily life, such as farming, hunting, and family gatherings. These dances are not only a form of entertainment but also a way to pass down cultural knowledge and values to younger generations. They serve as living textbooks, teaching about the Qiang people’s history, traditions, and way of life. Alongside the dances, the Qiang people also prepare special foods, such as succulent roasted lamb and hearty barley cakes, which they share generously with family and friends, strengthening social bonds and creating a sense of unity.
In Yunnan, the Dai people celebrate the festival in their own distinctive way. They gather near rivers and lakes, where they release small, beautifully decorated lanterns into the water. These lanterns are adorned with wishes for the elderly, written in delicate calligraphy or depicted through intricate drawings. As the lanterns float away on the gentle current, they symbolize the hope for health, happiness, and a long life for loved ones. This practice mirrors the Dai tradition of water purification, imbuing the festival with deep spiritual significance. It is a moment of reflection and prayer, as the Dai people express their love and respect for the elderly and their gratitude for the blessings in their lives.
In rural areas across China, the Double Ninth Festival often has a more rustic and down – to – earth charm. After the hard – working farmers have just finished the autumn harvest, a time of great labor and anticipation, they use the festival as an opportunity to rest, relax, and celebrate their bountiful rewards. In village squares, the heart of rural communities, a sense of joy and celebration fills the air. Farmers bring with them homemade Double Ninth Cake, brewed chrysanthemum wine, and fresh fruits straight from their farms. The aroma of the food and the sweet scent of the wine mingle, creating an inviting and warm atmosphere.
Children, full of energy and excitement, run around playing traditional games. Shuttlecock, a game where players use their feet, knees, and other parts of their bodies to keep a feathered shuttlecock in the air, is a popular choice. The sound of laughter and the cheers as they compete fill the village. Kite flying is another favorite activity, with children running across open fields, their kites soaring high in the clear autumn sky. Meanwhile, adults gather in small groups, chatting animatedly about the harvest, sharing stories of their experiences in the fields, and making plans for the winter ahead.
In some villages, a special ceremony is held to honor the elders. These wise and experienced members of the community are presented with gifts as a token of respect and gratitude. They are then invited to share their wisdom, life lessons, and stories with the younger generation. These exchanges are not only a way to pass down knowledge but also a means of strengthening the inter – generational bonds within the village. Some communities even organize traditional threshing demonstrations, where ancient farming techniques are showcased. These demonstrations serve as a reminder of the festival’s agricultural roots and the importance of respecting nature’s bounty. They also help to preserve traditional farming knowledge and skills, ensuring that they are not lost to future generations.
Even in the fast – paced modern cities, where the demands of work and daily life can be overwhelming, the Double Ninth Festival retains its timeless charm. Many young people, despite their busy schedules, make a conscious effort to visit their parents or grandparents on the festival day. They show their love and care by bringing gifts of warm clothing, which is especially appreciated as the weather turns colder, or health supplements to support their elderly relatives’ well – being. Others take their grandparents out for a meal at a nice restaurant, choosing a place that serves traditional cuisine to make the occasion even more special.
Some companies have also recognized the cultural significance of the festival and organize team – building activities around it. Group hikes, where employees can enjoy the fresh air and beautiful autumn scenery while getting to know each other better, are a popular choice. Chrysanthemum viewing trips are also organized, allowing employees to experience the beauty of the festival’s signature flower in a more relaxed and social setting. These activities not only encourage employees to connect with each other on a personal level but also promote the celebration of traditional culture within the workplace.
In recent years, with the rapid development of technology, online celebrations have also become increasingly popular. People share photos and videos of their festival activities on social media platforms, allowing friends and family from all over the world to join in the celebration virtually. Greetings are sent via messaging apps, often accompanied by beautiful images and heartfelt wishes. Online chrysanthemum exhibitions have emerged, where people can showcase their chrysanthemum – related artworks, photographs, and stories. Virtual reality experiences have also been developed, allowing those who are unable to travel due to various reasons to “climb” famous mountains or visit chrysanthemum gardens. These digital innovations are not only a testament to the adaptability of the festival but also a way to ensure that its core rituals and traditions are preserved and passed on in the digital age.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the Double Ninth Festival’s regional customs is how they all, despite their differences, circle back to the same core values: respect for the elderly, love for family, and appreciation of nature. Whether it’s the grand chrysanthemum exhibitions in the north, the tower – climbing in the south, the boat trips in the east, or the ethnic – specific celebrations in the west, each tradition is a unique expression of these values. These traditions also serve as a means of creating meaningful connections, both within families and among communities.
The regional differences in the celebration of the festival also make it a more dynamic and interesting cultural phenomenon. People from different parts of China have the opportunity to share their own customs and learn from one another, promoting cultural exchange and understanding. Community exchanges, such as the annual Chrysanthemum Culture Festival in Kaifeng, play a crucial role in this process. These festivals actively promote cross – regional cultural dialogue, bringing together people from various backgrounds to showcase their unique traditions, art forms, and cuisines. Through these exchanges, a deeper understanding of China’s diverse heritage is fostered, and a sense of national unity and pride is strengthened.
As the Double Ninth Festival continues to be celebrated across China, its regional customs are not only being preserved but also evolving to meet the changing times. Younger generations, with their innovative ideas and fresh perspectives, are finding new ways to honor tradition while adding their own unique touches. For example, some are organizing eco – friendly hikes, where participants not only enjoy the natural beauty but also take the time to pick up litter, promoting environmental awareness and conservation. In the culinary world, food bloggers and chefs are experimenting with fusion recipes, combining the traditional flavors of the Double Ninth Festival with contemporary cooking techniques. These modern interpretations of traditional dishes not only appeal to a younger audience but also introduce the festival to a global audience, spreading Chinese culture far and wide.
Universities have also recognized the importance of studying the festival from an anthropological perspective. They now offer courses on festival anthropology, encouraging students to document and analyze the various regional practices associated with the Double Ninth Festival. Through research projects, fieldwork, and academic discussions, students gain a deeper understanding of the cultural, social, and historical significance of the festival. This academic interest not only helps to preserve the festival’s traditions but also contributes to the broader field of cultural studies.
In the end, the Double Ninth Festival’s regional customs are a powerful testament to the diversity and richness of Chinese culture. They illustrate that despite the different ways in which people celebrate, they are united by a shared love for family, a deep – seated respect for the elderly, and an abiding connection to their cultural heritage. Whether one is in a bustling big city or a quiet small village, the Double Ninth Festival is a time to come together, celebrate the joys of life, and cherish the moments that truly matter. Cultural tourism initiatives have also capitalized on the festival’s allure, offering “Double Ninth Routes” that guide travelers through regions with unique celebrations. These routes provide a window into China’s timeless traditions and its vibrant modernity, allowing both domestic and international tourists to experience the festival in all its glory and diversity.
Post time: Oct-29-2025