Elders in Hainan celebrate longevity during Chongyang Festival

Senior citizens gathered in scenic spots across South China's Hainan province to celebrate Chongyang Festival, or Double Ninth Festival on Monday.

Every year on the Double Ninth Festival, which falls on the ninth day of the ninth month on the Chinese lunar calendar, the Nanshan Longevity Cultural Festival is held. At this themed event, elders have the opportunity to go hiking, write calligraphy, chant poetry, sing choir songs, experience cultural works and taste vegetarian food.

"Over the past 25 years, the Sanya Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone has been dedicated to showcasing the concept of longevity and promoting the virtue of respecting and caring for the elderly in the form of cultural festivals," said Liu Bingrui, chairman of the tourism zone.

The Dongzhaigang Mangrove Nature Reserve in Haikou is the largest and first mangrove reserve area in China. Here, some elders partake in the tradition of climbing the Moon Tower, which offers a stunning view of the mangrove landscape from the reserve's highest point. This activity is a common practice to celebrate Chongyang Festival.