Tomb Sweeping Day: Honoring Ancestors and Embracing Spring

We would like to inform you that our offices will be closed on Wednesday, April 5th in observance of Tomb Sweeping Day, a traditional Chinese holiday also known as Qingming Festival.

Tomb Sweeping Day, also known as Qingming Festival, is one of the most important traditional festivals in China. It falls on the 15th day after the Spring Equinox, usually around April 4th or 5th, and is a time for Chinese people to pay respects to their ancestors and deceased loved ones.

The origins of Tomb Sweeping Day can be traced back to over 2,500 years ago, during the Spring and Autumn Period (771-476 BC). Legend has it that a loyal official named Jie Zitui, who had served his prince diligently, refused to accept any rewards or honors and instead chose to live a simple life in the mountains. When the prince became the king of a new dynasty, he wanted to reward Jie Zitui, but the latter refused to return to the court. In desperation, the king ordered his men to set fire to the forest where Jie Zitui was living. Jie Zitui died in the fire, and the king was overcome with remorse. To honor Jie Zitui's loyalty and sacrifice, the king ordered a day of mourning and forbade the use of fire or cooking for the day. This day became the origin of Tomb Sweeping Day.

Today, Tomb Sweeping Day is still observed with great reverence and solemnity. Chinese people visit the graves of their ancestors to offer flowers, incense, and food, and to clean the gravesites. It is believed that by doing so, they can show their respect and gratitude to their ancestors, seek their blessings and guidance, and strengthen the bonds between the living and the dead.

Tomb Sweeping Day is also a time to embrace spring and nature. People often take advantage of the good weather to go for walks or picnics, fly kites, or enjoy other outdoor activities. It is a time to appreciate the beauty of spring and to renew one's spirit.

In recent years, Tomb Sweeping Day has taken on new significance as a way to promote cultural heritage and tourism. Many cities and regions in China organize cultural events, such as temple fairs, folk performances, and exhibitions, to showcase their local traditions and attract visitors.

Best regards,

iSuoChem Overseas Marketing Department