For international friends exploring the traditional Chinese calendar, “Qingming” (Qingming Festival or Tomb-Sweeping Day) is a concept rich in emotional depth and philosophical meaning. It is the fifth of the 24 Solar Terms, usually falling on April 4th, 5th, or 6th in the Gregorian calendar. Unlike other solar terms, Qingming is unique: it is the only day in China that serves as both a solar term and a major traditional festival.
What is “Qingming”?
In Chinese, “Qing” (清) means clear and pure, while “Ming” (明) means bright. An ancient Chinese proverb says, “During this time, all things grow clean and bright, hence the name Qingming.” At this point, the earth has completely shaken off the gloom of winter. Temperatures rise, plants flourish, and the sky takes on a crisp, clear appearance.
Originally, Qingming was simply a solar term to guide farming. Over time, it absorbed the customs of the ancient “Cold Food Festival” (a day of eating cold food to honor a loyal official) and the “Shangsi Festival” (a day for spring outings). Gradually, it evolved into a comprehensive holiday centered around honoring ancestors, while also providing a perfect opportunity for spring excursions.
Nature’s Signals: The Three Pentads of Qingming
Ancient Chinese divided Qingming into three pentads (each lasting five days) to record the magical transition between mid-spring and late spring:
- First Pentad: Paulownia Trees Blossom. The white paulownia flowers begin to bloom. Shaped like small trumpets and elegant in appearance, they are one of the most beautiful natural symbols of this season.
- Second Pentad: Field Mice Turn into Quails. Shy field mice, unable to bear the strengthening sunlight, retreat back into their underground burrows. Meanwhile, sun-loving birds like quails become highly active and begin to multiply.
- Third Pentad: Rainbows Appear. With the increase in spring showers, beautiful rainbows frequently grace the sky after the rain clears.
Unique Customs of Qingming
The cultural essence of Qingming is incredibly rich. It carries both sorrow for the departed and blessings for the living, perfectly reflecting the open-minded Chinese philosophy on life and death:
1. Tomb-Sweeping (Honoring Ancestors)
This is the core custom of Qingming. People visit the graves of their ancestors to clear away weeds, add fresh soil, and offer flowers and food to express gratitude and remembrance. In modern times, many young people also adopt eco-friendly ways to pay tribute, such as online memorials or planting trees.
2. Spring Outings (Ta Qing)
Since the weather is pleasant and bright, families often take a walk in the countryside or admire flowers after visiting the tombs. This tradition of “Ta Qing” (treading on the green) originates from ancient spring outings. It allows people to soothe their grief by embracing nature and feeling the vitality of life.
3. Eating Green Rice Balls (Qingtuan)
In the Jiangnan (south of the Yangtze River) region, people mix mugwort juice into glutinous rice flour and fill it with sweet red bean paste to make vibrant green dumplings called “Qingtuan.” With its faint, refreshing grassy aroma, this pastry is the exclusive taste of Qingming, symbolizing literally eating the essence of spring.
4. Swinging and Kite Flying
Ancient people believed that flying kites could release bad luck and bring good fortune. Swinging was also a popular outdoor activity for women in ancient times, filling the spring days with laughter and joy.
Conclusion
The Qingming Festival is an ode to love and memory. It teaches Chinese people to “respect their roots and remember their ancestors,” while simultaneously encouraging them to “embrace life.”
Next time you see the drizzling spring rain or taste a soft, chewy green rice ball during this season, take a moment to feel this millennia-old Eastern wisdom: while remembering the past, never forget to embrace the spring right in front of you.
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