By Xiao Wu, video by Xingchen Yue, iChongqing

Chongqing - As Qingming is drawing close, the grand Worship Ceremony of Yu the Great was held in Huguang Guild Hall, Chongqing on the morning of April 3^rd.

Since the reign of Emperor Kang Xi of the Qing Dynasty, namely 300 years ago, the Huguang migrants and their offspring in Chongqing would gather together annually in Huguang Guild Hall to commemorate Yu the Great and their ancestors, as well as pray for happiness. Gradually, the practice becomes a custom. 

The Worship Ceremony of Yu the Great in Huguang Guild Hall.

Yu the Great, who the ceremony worshiped, was a legendary ruler in ancient China famed for his introduction of flood control, inaugurating dynastic rule in China by establishing the Xia dynasty, and for his upright moral character. It is said while he was helping people curb the flood, he passed his home without entering for 3 times. People appreciated his great contribution and worshiped him ever since.

The traditional Worship Ceremony of Yu the Great in Huguang Guild Hall mainly consisted of 13 steps - scheduling, introducing the coming activities, hands cleansing, dusting, floral tribute, food tribute, praying, and burning incense - restored the historical scene. 

The Worship Ceremony of Yu the Great in Huguang Guild Hall.

The Worship Ceremony of Yu the Great in Huguang Guild Hall.

The Worship Ceremony of Yu the Great in Huguang Guild Hall.

The Worship Ceremony of Yu the Great in Huguang Guild Hall.

The Ceremony has attracted a great number of visitors from both home and abroad. It is a great time to experience the authentic Chinese Etiquette Culture. Huguang Guild Hall is one of the destinations you shall never miss during your stay in Chongqing.