Qingming Festival, also known as Tomb Sweeping Day, is one of China's most important traditional holidays, and falls on April 5 this year. Originating long ago as both a seasonal solar term and a cultural observance, it is recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage and a public holiday. Qingming is a time to honor ancestors, as well as an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and embrace the renewal of spring.

Qingming customs

Placing and wearing willow branches

Willow branches represent new life and hope. During Qingming, people place them over doorways or wear them on their heads to drive away bad luck and invite blessings. The custom comes from early nature worship and celebrates the lively energy of spring.

Spring outings

Taking a walk in nature is one of the most important Qingming traditions, and can be traced back to ancient farming rituals that welcomed the spring. For centuries, people have headed outdoors during Qingming, walking on fresh grass and letting the spring breeze sweep away winter's gloom.

Many families follow a visit to the cemetery with a trip into the countryside, paying respects to the past while embracing the present. This interplay of remembrance and recreation makes Qingming a bridge between reflection and nature.

Flying kites

Flying kites is another typical Qingming activity. In ancient times, people believed that flying a kite could expel bad luck and welcome good fortune. A folk rhyme from the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) describes children flying kites in groups, capturing the lively spring scene. Today, the tradition lives on as a fun way to connect with nature.

This Qingming Festival, Shanghai Oriental Land is holding a kite festival. Children under the age of 12 can enjoy free admission by bringing their own kite, while the expansive 70,000-square-meter lawn offers plenty of space to run around and fly them. Throughout the three-day holiday, the park will also feature traditional kite performances and interactive activities. Visitors can walk through fields of blooming rapeseed flowers and capture photos. Whether visiting with family or seeking to recapture the simple joys of childhood, it offers an idea setting for a breezy spring day.

Eating qingtuan

In Shanghai, eating qingtuan (green rice balls) around Qingming is a long-standing custom. The dough is made from glutinous rice mixed with mugwort or barley grass juice, giving it a bright green color and a soft, chewy texture. Filled with sweet red bean paste, sesame, or other fillings, these little treats carry the fresh taste of spring. They are both a seasonal memory and a must-taste flavor of the season.

→ Recommendations for time-honored qingtuan shops in Shanghai.

Spring outing guide

The days around Qingming are perfect for a spring getaway. From ancient water towns to city parks, Shanghai offers plenty of choices for a seasonal outing.

Ancient water towns

Zhujiajiao, Fengjing, Qingxi, and other old towns in Shanghai are popular spring destinations during Qingming. These towns keep the classic Jiangnan look of rivers, streets, ancient bridges, and old houses. Visitors can wander through historic lanes, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy spring flowers and green willows. It is a chance to find a peaceful, leisurely spring mood along stone paths.

Parks and green spaces

Shanghai Botanical Garden, Century Park, Binjiang Forest Park, and other city parks are in full bloom during Qingming. With beautiful scenery and modern facilities, they are ideal for a spring walk, a picnic, or birdwatching. Whether you are admiring cherry blossoms or tulips, or simply spreading a blanket on the grass, you can fully embrace the comfort of spring.

Spring activity recommendations:

Explore spring in Shanghai on three stunning cycling routes

Shanghai's top attractions roll out seasonal experiences

Discover five classical gardens in Shanghai at their spring best

Five scenic walking routes to enjoy Shanghai's spring blooms

Shanghai Cherry Blossom Festival 2026 to illuminate Gucun Park with nighttime blossoms

Urban Forest Flower Show blooms at Gongqing National Forest Park

Slow down and enjoy Shanghai's parks by train

Sources: General Office of the Shanghai Municipal People's Government, Oriental Land, eastday