Beijing offers more choices to pay tribute to the dead

People in Beijing were offered more choices this year to mourn loved ones during Qingming Festival under strict epidemic control and prevention measures.

The first busy day for tomb sweeping was March 26 when, according to the Beijing Civil Affairs Bureau, 231 tomb-sweeping points in the city received 187,120 visitors.

During the Qingming holiday from Sunday to Tuesday, some 1.06 million people visited tomb-sweeping locations in the city to mourn loved ones.

In order to better serve citizens, Babaoshan People's Cemetery offered visitors brushes, oil paints, barrels, wheelchairs, blessing cards and free flowers during the holiday.

To reduce the risk of infection, visitors needed to show a green health code and reservation confirmation before entering. They were given a non-contact temperature test and had to line up 1 meter apart.

Babaoshan Revolutionary Cemetery introduced new water-soluble sacrifices in the form of letters, with visitors writing their respects for the dead before placing the letters in water. Those unable to visit the cemetery could reserve designated tomb-sweeping services online or via a phone call.

Many cemeteries offer services to help people have flowers delivered and send condolences. The entire memorial process can be photographed or livestreamed for clients.

To encourage people to mourn ancestors and recently deceased family members in more eco-friendly ways, the authorities in Shijingshan district have urged the adoption of low-carbon commemorations. These include sending flowers instead of burning paper money, and organizing commemorative activities and spring outings online－reducing the risk of infection posed by mass gatherings.

At Wan'an Cemetery, face masks, disposable gloves and sterilization supplies are provided. A navigation service, cushions, drinking water, emergency medicines and designated tomb-sweeping services are also offered to the public.

Yao Yuxin contributed to this story.