Tea farmers perform the traditional Calling the Mountains ritual to invoke a good tea harvest. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

On March 5, on the day of Jingzhe or the Awakening of the Insects solar term, the tea farmers in Hangzhou – capital of East China's Zhejiang province – did a curious, but time-honored thing.

They headed to Nangaofeng Peak in Wengjiashan village – in the West Lake Scenic Area – to perform the traditional Calling the Mountains ritual.

Together, they shouted in unison: "Wengjiashan! Tea, sprout! A great harvest!" – in an ancient custom that is believed to awaken the tea buds and bless the West Lake Longjing tea harvest.

As the season shifts and the first shoots begin to emerge, this tradition reflects the deep cultural heritage and hopes for a prosperous tea season in Hangzhou.

West Lake Longjing tea is about to harvest soon. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]