Sansha, Hainan Province – As the Lunar New Year approaches, the spirit of the holiday is spreading even to the farthest reaches of China’s territory. On January 22nd, a team of calligraphers visited the Spratly Islands (also known as the Qilian Yu) in Sansha City, Hainan Province, bringing with them the cherished tradition of writing Spring Festival couplets.
Jade snakes herald prosperous businesses, golden orioles announce the arrival of spring, read one such couplet, penned with artistic flair on red paper adorned with gilded floral patterns. With each stroke of the brush, the calligraphers created sets of couplets and auspicious Fu characters, filling the air with the rich aroma of ink and the promise of good fortune.
This event, reported by Nie Xin Xin and Wen Ziyu from the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and the National Supervisory Commission’s website, highlights the importance of tradition and cultural connection, even in remote locales. The act of bringing Spring Festival couplets to the Spratly Islands symbolizes not only the celebration of the New Year but also the strengthening of ties between the mainland and its island communities.
The Spring Festival, also known as Lunar New Year or Chinese New Year, is the most important holiday in Chinese culture. Couplets, typically displayed on door frames, express hopes for prosperity, good health, and happiness in the coming year. The tradition of gifting these calligraphic works adds a personal touch to the celebrations, fostering a sense of community and shared cultural identity.
This initiative in the Spratly Islands serves as a reminder of the enduring power of cultural traditions to connect people, regardless of geographical distance. As the Year of the [Upcoming Year’s Zodiac Animal] approaches, the vibrant red couplets will undoubtedly bring joy and a sense of belonging to the residents and personnel stationed on these islands, allowing them to celebrate the Spring Festival with the same warmth and spirit as their counterparts on the mainland.
References:
- 中央纪委国家监委网站. (2025, January 23). 新春走基层丨春联送上七连屿 [Spring Festival Couplets Bring Festive Cheer to the Spratly Islands]. Retrieved from [Insert Original URL Here]
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