If you're travelling to China this October, your trip might just coincide with the Chongyang Festival. Ever heard of it? There’s actually quite a lot to enjoy during the celebration. Let me share some of the fun so you can get your holiday plans sorted and make it even more exciting!

Chongyang Festival, or also known as Chung Yeung Festival / Cheung Yeung Festival / Cheung Yung Festival / Double Ninth Festival, is a traditional Chinese celebration that falls on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. 

I first came across it while learning about cultural events, and I found it quite fascinating. What makes the Chongyang Festival so unique is how it blends nature, tradition, and family values. It's a lovely way to experience a different side of Chinese culture, especially if you're visiting China in autumn.

The festival is all about promoting health, longevity, and respect for the elderly. In fact, it's even recognised as a special day to honour and appreciate older people. For those of you who are visiting China during this festival, it's a perfect chance to witness a meaningful cultural tradition focused on family and seasonal change.

The roots of the Chongyang Festival stretch back more than 2,000 years, closely tied to ancient Chinese philosophies of yin and yang. The ninth day of the ninth lunar month is considered a ‘double yang’ date — symbolising vitality, strength, and the need for balance. 

What intrigued me most was how this belief translates into meaningful rituals like climbing to higher ground which is believed to dispel bad luck and illness. Also, sipping chrysanthemum tea or wine for its health properties. While these customs may sound symbolic, they’re still actively practised today across China. 

In contrast, I noticed that in places like Singapore, the Chongyang Festival is observed more quietly, often within family circles or at local temples. The spirit of remembrance and well-being is still present, but without the large public outings seen in mainland China. 

If you happen to be in China around this time, I highly recommend setting aside a day to join local festivities. It’s a beautiful opportunity to connect with Chinese culture on a deeper level, beyond the usual sightseeing. Here are a glimpse of popular attractions in China during the Double Ninth Festival i recommended: 

like Chongyang cake, a steamed layered cake often decorated with nuts and dried fruits.

The Chongyang Festival takes place on the ninth day of the ninth month in the lunar calendar, which usually falls in October (mid-October in 2025). 

Here are a few fantastic destinations where you can immerse yourself in the festive spirit, along with some helpful suggestions for things to do and where to stay:

Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Charlie_fong

One of the top activities in Beijing during the festival is visiting Fragrant Hills Park. Locals flock here to admire the autumn foliage, hike up the hillside, and enjoy fresh air and tea. I recommend going early in the morning for the best views and a relaxed atmosphere.

Where to stay: You’ll find plenty of hotels in Beijing to suit your budgets, from modern chains in Haidian District near the park, to luxury stays in Chaoyang if you prefer a city vibe with easy access to historical sites. Some of recommended hotels are:

Activities in Beijing: Combine your experience with a trip to the Summer Palace, or take a cooking class to learn how to make dumplings.

There are plenty of flight options from Singapore to Beijing, whether you prefer a direct route or don’t mind a layover. According to Traveloka, the cheapest one-way tickets start from around SGD 179, while return flights begin at approximately SGD 333. 

Source: Traveloka

During my time in Hong Kong, I discovered that both Lion Rock and Dragon’s Back are popular hiking trails for Chongyang. These spots offer sweeping views and are steeped in local symbolism I've mentioned before. 

Where to stay: I stayed in Tsim Sha Tsui East, which gave me quick access to transport and great dining options. Hotels in Kowloon or Causeway Bay also make excellent bases for exploring nature and city life. Here are some of my recommended accommodations to stay in Hong Kong:

Activities in Hong Kong: After your hike, you can unwind with chrysanthemum tea in a local teahouse or visit a Buddhist temple for a peaceful end to the day. 

You can also find a wide range of activities and attraction tickets in Hong Kong on Traveloka. Don’t forget to search for the best flights from Singapore to Hong Kong on the platform as well!

Source: Traveloka

Flying from Singapore to Taipei is easy! While you’re in Taipei, visiting Elephant Mountain in the Xiangshan area is a local favourite during Chongyang. It’s a relatively short hike but offers one of the most iconic sunset views of the city skyline. I loved how locals brought snacks or tea and made it a little picnic outing.

Where to stay: Look for hotels in Taipei? Try hotels in the area near Xinyi District. It’s close to both the trail and attractions in Taipei like Taipei 101 Observatory. It’s also very tourist-friendly, with English signage and easy transport. Check these hotels for your next trip to Taipei:

Activities in Taipei: Beyond hiking, you can explore night markets, visit the National Palace Museum, or join a tea appreciation workshop.

Source: Traveloka

If you’re after something more peaceful, Hangzhou is a wonderful choice. I took a stroll through Nine Creeks, surrounded by misty woods and babbling streams. You’ll see families walking together, sipping warm tea, and enjoying the crisp air. West Lake also hosts boat rides and offers beautiful photo spots.

Where to stay: There are many charming boutique hotels near West Lake, perfect for those who love a serene atmosphere. Alternatively, downtown Shangcheng District offers modern hotels with easy access to parks and local cuisine. Here are some of recommended places to stay:

You can easily find a wide range of hotels in Hangzhou on Traveloka to suit all budgets.

Activities in Hangzhou: Rent a bike to circle West Lake, visit a chrysanthemum exhibition (often held around this time), or relax in a traditional tea house overlooking the water.

Source: https://news.cgtn.com/

Food plays an important role in the Chung Yeung Festival. One of the most iconic dishes is Chongyang cake. It’s a steamed, multi-layered rice cake often decorated with jujubes (red dates), chestnuts, and nuts. 

Another common element is chrysanthemum, which appears not only as tea but also in light dishes or herbal infusions. Chrysanthemum tea is believed to have cooling properties and health benefits, making it a popular drink during the festival.

In some regions, families also prepare seasonal dishes like steamed meats, sticky rice, or sweet glutinous dumplings. I definitely recommend stopping by a traditional bakery or teahouse to sample these festive treats. It's a delicious way to experience this centuries-old celebration.

Experiencing the Chongyang Festival first-hand is a wonderful way to explore a different side of Chinese culture. If you're planning a trip during this time, Traveloka makes it easy to find the perfect place to stay. From boutique hotels in Taipei to family-friendly hotels in Beijing and stylish city hotels in Hong Kong, there are plenty of accommodation options to suit your travel style and budget.