October 11, 2023, Beijing (China News Service) — The ninth day of the ninth lunar month marks the traditional Chinese festival of Double Ninth, also known as Chongyang or the Chrysanthemum Festival. This ancient holiday is celebrated with various customs, including mountain climbing, kite flying, autumn harvest displays, and the eating of Double Ninth cake, alongside wearing dogwood.
As Double Ninth approaches, families and friends often take to the mountains to enjoy the breathtaking autumn scenery, capturing these precious moments together.
The practice of climbing high on this day is steeped in rich cultural and natural significance. Historical texts, such as the “Xijing Miscellany,” reference traditions like “wearing dogwood and eating chrysanthemum cakes” on this date.
For those far from home, the festival stirs deep feelings of nostalgia and longing. One well-known poem by the renowned Tang Dynasty poet Wang Wei, “On the Ninth Day of the Ninth Month, I Remember My Brothers in Shandong,” expresses this sentiment: “I know my brothers are on the heights, wearing dogwood—yet one person is missing.”
Climbing heights on Double Ninth carries a dual significance. In addition to farewell to autumn, as the chilly weather approaches and harvests conclude, it symbolizes longevity. The word “nine” sounds like “long-lasting” in Chinese, echoing wishes for a long life.
But why celebrate with chrysanthemum wine? The saying “come back to drink chrysanthemum wine on Double Ninth” reflects another cherished tradition of appreciating chrysanthemums and drinking chrysanthemum wine, symbolizing a respect for life and goodwill.
During the ninth lunar month, chrysanthemums bloom brightly as other vegetation begins to wilt. The famous poet Tao Yuanming expressed his fondness for these flowers, leading to a flourishing of the chrysanthemum appreciation tradition during the Song Dynasty.
Chrysanthemum wine was traditionally seen as a “lucky drink” believed to ward off misfortune and promote longevity. Cheng Peng, an assistant researcher at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, notes that this ancient beverage was thought to enhance clarity and bring good fortune.
The festival is rich in sentimental value, evolving over time to reflect deeper meanings. Today, Double Ninth is also recognized as the Seniors’ Festival, embodying the principle of honoring the elderly. The saying “We treat our elders as we treat our own,” emphasizes respect and care for all ages.
As we celebrate Double Ninth each year, the bonds of family and friendship remind us not to forget our loved ones. No matter how busy life gets, take a moment to wish the elders health and long life, and convey your wishes for happiness and safety to friends and family.
