The Origin Story of Chongyang Festival

　　

How Chongyang Festival Came to Be

　　In ancient times, it was believed that the ninth day of the ninth lunar month brought bad luck and misfortune. To ward off these negative energies, the Chinese people started celebrating a festival known as Chongyang Festival or the Double Ninth Festival. This traditional festival is celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth month according to the lunar calendar, which usually falls in October.

　　

Legend of Chongyang Festival

　　There are several legends associated with the origin of Chongyang Festival, but the most popular one revolves around a young man named Heng Jing and his wise old friend.

　　According to the legend, Heng Jing was advised by a sage that his entire family would be struck by disaster on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. To protect his family, the sage instructed Heng Jing to climb to the top of a mountain and make offerings to the gods. Following the advice, Heng Jing climbed up to the mountain with his family and made offerings including chongyang cakes, which were believed to possess magic properties that could ward off evil spirits and bring blessings.

　　After they returned from the mountain, Heng Jings family discovered that their house had been completely destroyed by a deadly plague. They realized that the sages advice had saved their lives. In gratitude, the family decided to climb the mountain every year on the ninth day of the ninth month to pay tribute to the gods, in hopes of preventing any future disasters.

　　

Customs and Traditions of Chongyang Festival

　　As time went by, the climbing of mountains became a popular tradition during Chongyang Festival. People would gather with friends and family to climb hills and mountains, enjoying the autumn scenery and fresh air. It became a way to celebrate life and appreciate nature.

　　Another important custom during Chongyang Festival is the consumption of chongyang cakes. These cakes are made by steaming glutinous rice with various fillings such as red bean paste, lotus seed paste, and nuts. The cake is then wrapped in bamboo leaves and steamed again, giving it a unique flavor and fragrance. Eating chongyang cakes is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.

　　In addition to climbing mountains and enjoying chongyang cakes, people also fly kites during Chongyang Festival. The tradition of kite flying originated from the belief that high-flying kites would carry away diseases and misfortunes, ensuring good health and fortune in the coming year.

　　

Significance of Chongyang Festival

　　Chongyang Festival holds great significance in Chinese culture. It is not only a time for family reunion and appreciation of nature but also an occasion to show respect and gratitude to the elderly. In Chinese tradition, the number nine is considered auspicious and represents longevity. Therefore, Chongyang Festival is also known as the Senior Citizens Day, where people pay tribute to their elders, express filial piety, and wish them good health and long life.

　　In conclusion, Chongyang Festival originated from the ancient belief in warding off bad luck and misfortune. With the passage of time, it has evolved into a festival filled with customs and traditions that celebrate life, appreciate nature, and honor the elderly. The legend of Heng Jing and the significance of climbing mountains, eating chongyang cakes, and flying kites during this festival have become an integral part of Chinese culture and heritage.