Honouring Cultural Traditions

On the morning of June 11, 2026, a grand worship ceremony celebrating Emperor Yan, also known as Shennong or the ‘Celestial Farmer,’ took place in Suizhou, Hubei Province, China. This event marked the birthday of the legendary figure, credited as a pioneer of Chinese farming and medicine. The day corresponded to the 26th day of the fourth lunar month.

Co-hosted by the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, China Federation of Literary and Art Circles, and the People’s Government of Hubei Province, the ceremony attracted participants from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, as well as representatives of overseas Chinese and guests from various backgrounds.

The ceremony commenced with the elegant music of ancient chime bells. It adhered to traditional rituals comprising nine distinct procedures: sounding drums and bells, opening the sacred gate, lighting the sacred flame, presenting flower baskets, offering incense to the ancestor, reciting eulogies, paying collective homage, singing odes, and viewing the sacred statue.

Ritual Significance and Cultural Exchange

Suizhou, famous for its ritual music, showcased the Bianzhong of Marquis Yi of Zeng, known as the ‘eighth wonder of the world.’ The beating of ancient drums and ringing of chime bells enhanced the solemnity of the event, which is recognised as a national intangible cultural heritage.

This annual event has evolved into a cultural inheritance initiative embraced by the local community. Students from primary, secondary, and university levels formed ritual teams and gave cultural performances, integrating Emperor Yan culture into their education and community life.

From April to June, various supporting events facilitated cultural exchange activities. Participants from Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, and overseas Chinese experienced the cultural richness of Suizhou through numerous programmes.

The city of Suizhou, a renowned cradle of ritual music, plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting these traditions. The integration of Emperor Yan culture into school education and community activities ensures that this time-honoured tradition is passed down to future generations.

In addition to the main ceremony, a series of exchange activities allowed attendees to engage deeply with Suizhou’s cultural heritage. The local community has successfully turned the annual worship ritual for Emperor Yan into a regular cultural initiative, involving students in the ceremonial activities and public outreach programmes.