A sound grasp of Chinese is essential if you want to experience the true nature of China. By participating in our program, which includes such outings as Hutong tours, you will sharpen your Chinese language skills.

The Double Ninth Day Festival

The Double Ninth Day derives its name from the fact that it is observed on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month.  In ancient times, farmers celebrated their abundant harvests on this day. The festival began around 475 B.C. and was made an official holiday for common people during the Tang Dynasty.  Long ago, the festival was celebrated by hiking in the mountains, enjoying chrysanthemum flowers, drinking chrysanthemum flower wine and eating Double Ninth cake.  The reason it became a custom to eat cake during this festival is because the Chinese word for cake (gao) has the same pronunciation as the word for tall, indicating that this time of year is excellent for the clear mountain views that can be seen from the tallest points.  While today most people no longer drink the chrysanthemum flower wine, and only a few people still follow the custom of eating the Double Ninth cake, nearly all Chinese still like to hike in the mountains to commemorate this festival.  Double Ninth Day has changed from an official day-off to a time to celebrate and recognize the contributions of the elderly.