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Chinese cities spark outcry with ban on joss paper sales and ‘feudal superstitions’ for Ching Ming Festival
- Local governments prohibit sale and production of joss paper, spirit money and other offerings used in ancestor worship during tomb-sweeping day
- While a national ban has long been in place, viral announcement by east China city revives debate over folk customs and rituals
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Local governments across China have provoked an outcry on social media by cracking down on the burning of joss paper and other offerings during this year’s Ching Ming Festival – a tradition they have described as “feudal superstition”.
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The city of Nantong in the eastern province of Jiangsu announced a ban late last month on the manufacturing and selling of spirit money, joss paper and other supplies for the holiday, also known as tomb-sweeping day.
The ban aims to “promote funeral and burial reforms” and advocate for “civilised” customs and practices, according to an announcement released last week.
The city warned of fines, administrative penalties and even criminal prosecution for those found violating the rules.
During Ching Ming Festival, Chinese families visit the tombs of their ancestors, clean their gravesites and make ritual offerings to the dead in a solemn ceremony of remembrance.
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