For two nights, flames and sparks lit up Songtang Village in Xiqiao Town, Nanhai District, Foshan, as a Mid-Autumn Festival tradition more than 300 years old returned on September 25 and 26.
Known as "Burning the Fan Pagoda," the tradition was added to Foshan's municipal intangible cultural heritage list in 2017. As the red-brick pagoda was set ablaze, sparks soared into the night sky, symbolizing wishes for family prosperity and academic success.
On the first night, village elders and students gathered at the Ou Clan Ancestral Hall for traditional rituals before torchbearers carried the flame about 500 meters through the village to light the pagoda. Visitors could also write down their wishes and add firewood to the pagoda as a symbol of good fortune in their studies.
On September 26, Songtang held its 14th Hanlin Culture Festival, featuring a ceremony honoring Confucius, the traditional Six-Rank Dance and scholarships for students.
Founded during the Song Dynasty nearly 800 years ago, Songtang is known for its rich scholarly tradition. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the village produced four Hanlin scholars and more than 20 successful imperial examination candidates.
The pagoda may burn for two nights, but Songtang's tradition of valuing learning and education has endured for centuries.
Reporter: Xiong Cheng
Photos: Liao Mingcan
Video: Yang Huitao
