陕西民众清明节纪念黄帝

During this year's traditional Qingming Festival, more than 10,000 Chinese from home and abroad have gathered to pay their respects to their common ancestor Huang Di, better known as the Yellow Emperor. They say the purpose of their worship is to inherit the Chinese civilization and help to further unify China.

Drums strike thirty-four times, one for each of the mainland's 31 provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions, as well as Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan. Huge bells ring out… echoing across the temple… Fifty-six dragon flags unfurl in the wind, representing China's ethnic groups.

The solemn style of worship and dance, which represent sacrificial activities, takes us back thousands of years, when the Yellow Emperor unified tribes along the Yellow River Valley and ultimately founded the Chinese nation and culture.

This year’s attendees are not just high profile officials, delegates from Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macao and overseas Chinese. Guests include scientists, talented young people, outstanding role models from around the country have also been invited to join...

"In Taiwan, we hold the memorial for the Yellow Emperor across the strait. And now, I am here to attend this ceremony, the feeling is very different," said Zhan Chunbo, honorary vice chairman of Chinese Kuomintang.

"I am very proud to attend this ceremony, I hope realization of the Chinese nation is coming soon," said a visitor.

Experts say the yellow emperor unified the Yellow River Basin and brought peace to China thousands of years ago. many major advances were seen during his reign, including the origination of Chinese characters, musical instruments, medicine, and a counting system.

Historians believe sacrificial ceremonies dedicated to the Yellow Emperor started in 442 BC. Emperor Wu, of the Han Dynasty, held the largest recorded one. This year’s ceremony highlights how Chinese people inherited their unique civilization and continue to pursue a dream of rejuvenation

"As an overseas Chinese, I am thrilled to attend this activity. We are not only here to search for our roots, but also looking for more opportunities to better serve the country," said Liu Liying, President of Croatia Cultural Exchange Center.

The ideal of the "Chinese Dream" -- initiated by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2012 -- has integrated national and personal aspirations. It requires sustained economic growth, expanded equality and an infusion of cultural values. Over thousands of years, Chinese people have never stopped working towards this ideal. And now they are on the brink of realization.