The Double Ninth Festival, also known as Chongyang Festival, falls on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month every year and is a traditional folk festival in China. In the "I Ching" (Book of Changes), the number "nine" is considered yang, and the combination of two nines, "jiujiu", gives the festival its name "Chongyang".

Customs of the Double Ninth Festival

Admiring Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums are famous flowers in China and are also known as the flower of longevity. They flourish when frost descends, and due to their unique qualities, they have become a symbol of vitality. Historically, there has been a custom of admiring chrysanthemums during the Double Ninth Festival, which is why it was also called the Chrysanthemum Festival in ancient times. People believe that chrysanthemums are a symbol of longevity, and during the festival, many places hold chrysanthemum fairs and exhibitions, with people from all over the city coming out to admire the flowers.

Drinking Chrysanthemum Wine

Drinking chrysanthemum wine was a popular custom in ancient times. Generally, chrysanthemum wine is made by brewing chrysanthemums with millet, and it appeared during the Han Dynasty. Ancient people believed that chrysanthemum wine has the effects of clearing heat and detoxifying, prolonging life, and is a "lucky wine" for averting disasters and praying for blessings. It was a popular "health drink" during the Double Ninth Festival in the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

Wearing Cornus

The custom of wearing Cornus (dogwood) was prevalent during the Tang Dynasty. People believed that wearing Cornus on the Double Ninth Festival could ward off misfortune and disasters. They would either insert it into their arms or put it in a sachet and wear it, which was called a "Cornus pouch".

Climbing Mountains

The Double Ninth Festival also has the custom of climbing mountains. October is a season of clear autumn skies, perfect for outings. Climbing to a high place and looking into the distance at this time of year can achieve the purpose of strengthening the body. This autumn, why not climb a mountain with your family?