A grand temple fair featuring local custom shows and cultural performances was held at the Jincun village of Zhangjiagang on May 14, to celebrate the birthday of Sakyamuni, the founder of Buddhism, and to commemorate local hero Jin Qi.

The Jincun Temple Fair dates back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279) when locals celebrated the birthday of Sakyamuni by washing the statue of Buddha.

Later during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), a local villager named Jin Qi died fighting in a war against invasions on May 14, spreading legendary stories of his bravery around the region. The practice of worshipping Jin Qi was added to the temple fair from then on.

Different performances were displayed on stage, including dancing, acrobatics and marching.

The Jincun Temple Fair has been listed as one of Zhangjiagang’s Intangible Cultural Heritages.