Ancient ritual inspires young learners in Ningbo

Children write Chinese characters as part of early learning. [Photo/Ningbo Daily]

Zoumatang village in Yinzhou district, Ningbo, celebrated its ninth annual First Writing Ceremony, a traditional rite that introduces young children to the world of learning.

On the morning of Aug 23, 35 school-age children gathered in Zoumatang wearing scholars' robes. The ceremony began with hand-washing, symbolizing sincerity and self-cultivation, followed by robe-straightening to reflect proper conduct. Children bowed to portraits of revered teachers as a gesture of respect for knowledge.

Each child then received a cinnabar mark on the forehead — known as "opening the wisdom eye" — before striking a large drum three times, pledging devotion to study, perseverance in action, and strength in virtue. Finally, they practiced calligraphy by writing the Chinese character "人" (person), reinforcing the idea of becoming upright individuals.

Led by Jin Qi, director of moral education at Maoshan Primary School, and teacher Zhu Xiaomei, the event reflects Zoumatang's deep-rooted tradition and has been held annually for nine years.

The village is known as the First Village of Jinshi, a title earned for producing 76 jinshi — scholars who achieved the highest degree in China's imperial examination system since the Song Dynasty (960-1279).