The celebration of the number 9 or the 9th day of the 9th month is culturally significant in various ways. One of the notable celebrations is the Double Ninth Festival, a traditional Chinese holiday observed on the ninth day of the ninth month in the Chinese lunar calendar. According to Chinese philosophy, the number nine is a yang number and the ninth day of the ninth month (double nine) is considered highly auspicious because it carries extra yang energy. It is customary to celebrate by climbing mountains, drinking chrysanthemum liquor, and wearing the zhuyu plant, both believed to have cleansing qualities. Additionally, some families pay respects to ancestors by visiting and tidying their graves on this day, accompanied by traditional food offerings.
In Japan, September 9 is also celebrated as Chrysanthemum Day (Kiku no Sekku), which historically coincides with the Double Ninth Festival in the Chinese lunar calendar. The chrysanthemum is a symbol of the Emperor of Japan and longevity. This day is considered auspicious and is often chosen for weddings and celebrations, reflecting good fortune and longevity due to the phonetic similarity of 9/9 (jiu-jiu) to "long-long" in Chinese.
Beyond these cultural festivals, specific days involving the number 9, like September 9, have various regional holidays such as California Admission Day in the United States, Independence Day in Tajikistan, and Armored Forces Day in Ukraine.
Therefore, celebrating "9" or September 9 has its roots in traditional beliefs about its auspiciousness and longevity, as well as specific cultural and historical commemorations.
