**Interview with Local Journalists about Chinese Seasonal Traditions**
**Interviewer:** Thank you both for joining us to discuss the beautiful seasonal changes in China, specifically during the Cold Dew period. Can you start by explaining what Cold Dew is and its significance?
**Reporter from Hangzhou:** Certainly! Since October 8, we’ve entered the Cold Dew solar term, which is the fifth term of autumn. During this time, there’s a notable shift from cool to cold temperatures, and we observe significant temperature differences between day and night. Cold Dew comprises three climatic indicators: the arrival of migratory geese, sparrows entering the water, and the blooming of yellow chrysanthemums. Traditional activities during this period include outdoor excursions and flower viewing, which are deeply rooted in our culture.
**Interviewer:** How is this season reflected in Hangzhou’s local customs?
**Reporter from Hangzhou:** In Hangzhou, the arrival of Cold Dew brings with it the delightful fragrance of osmanthus flowers. Annually, we celebrate the osmanthus season with various activities—viewing flowers, drinking osmanthus tea, and savoring osmanthus-infused dishes across the city. One of the most popular blooming spots is Manjuelong, where over 7,000 osmanthus trees create a breathtaking scene when the flowers drop from the trees. In 1985, it was recognized as one of the New Ten Scenic Spots of West Lake.
**Interviewer:** Can you elaborate on the cultural significance of osmanthus in Hangzhou?
**Reporter from Hangzhou:** Absolutely! Osmanthus has a long-standing cultural history in Hangzhou. Historical records indicate that osmanthus trees were planted around the Lingyin Temple, which is now about 1,700 years old. Hangzhou has designated the osmanthus as the city flower, with over 184 ancient trees, some over 1,500 years old. The city is home to more than 500 million osmanthus trees in total, and the Hangzhou Botanical Garden showcases over 70 varieties.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like osmanthus holds a special place in the hearts of the locals. Could you share how it is represented in Chinese literature and poetry?
**Reporter from Hangzhou:** Certainly! Many traditional poems celebrate osmanthus. For instance, the famous Tang poet Song Zhiwen mentioned it in his poem about Lingyin Temple, conveying its ethereal beauty. Also, Bai Juyi’s “Memories of Jiangnan” continues to celebrate Hangzhou’s osmanthus, showing its lasting charm over the centuries. Notable writers like Yu Dafu and Liang Shiqiu have also referenced the city and its osmanthus in their works, enhancing the cultural elegance associated with the flower.
**Interviewer:** How do locals engage with osmanthus today?
**Reporter from Hangzhou:** There’s a wonderful blend of tradition and modernity. For instance, Shen Rongyan, a representative inheritor of intangible cultural heritage, makes sweet osmanthus. Her method combines unique flavors of sweetness with a hint of salt and sourness to create a distinctive taste. Tourists are constantly flocking to her stall, eager to experience this local delicacy.
**Interviewer:** Let’s shift gears to Chengdu. What about the seasonal traditions there, particularly with hibiscus flowers?
**Reporter from Chengdu:** Recently, Chengdu experienced its own autumn arrival with much excitement surrounding hibiscus flowers. Visitors braved the rain at the Chengdu Botanical Garden to admire the vibrant blooms. Hibiscus, or “Mu Hibiscus,” thrives in the late autumn and symbolizes resilience, as its beauty persists even in cooler weather.
**Interviewer:** What events are being held to celebrate this season of hibiscus?
**Reporter from Chengdu:** In October, we held various activities, including flower markets and natural classrooms focused on hibiscus. The enthusiasm for hibiscus is longstanding; it was designated as Chengdu’s city flower in 1983. We also incorporate historical tales, such as the story of Xue Tao, a Tang poet who used hibiscus juice for her paper, to engage visitors with the flower’s cultural heritage.
**Interviewer:** And lastly, what are the autumn experiences like in Qinhuangdao, particularly with chrysanthemums?
**Reporter from Qinhuangdao:** As autumn descends, visitors are drawn to the stunning chrysanthemum displays at the Jiao Mountain Scenic Area in Qinhuangdao. This season not only celebrates chrysanthemums but also represents cultural activities that include poetry and various events, showcasing their beauty against the backdrop of the Great Wall.
**Interviewer:** It’s remarkable how each city creatively embodies its seasonal changes through flowers, traditions, and cultural stories. Thank you both for sharing these insights!
