The Sheng Gu Temple, situated in Tingshan Village, Xiwu Sub-district, stands as a memorial to three women who offered water to the Song army soldiers, aiding them in their fight against the invading Yuan forces. These women are akin to the modern concept of ‘model supporters of the army’, and the temple is also known as Sheng Gu Niangniang Temple.
In times gone by, the Sheng Gu Temple was a hub of activity during the Lantern Festival and the beginning of each year. From the 15th to the 16th day of the first lunar month, a vibrant temple fair would take place, featuring opera performances that lasted from dusk until dawn, a tradition referred to as ‘two-end red’. The first half of the night was reserved for guests to enjoy the performances, while the locals would take over in the second half. This not only marked the arrival of a new day but also the beginning of spring.
There is a well-known saying in the region: “Be a daughter of Miaoshan people, not a daughter-in-law of Miaoshan people.” This phrase reflects the different experiences of daughters and daughters-in-law during the Spring Festival. Daughters who return to their parents’ home are free to enjoy the operas and meals without any responsibilities. On the other hand, daughters-in-law are kept extremely busy, tasked with arranging beds for guests and preparing midnight snacks, leaving them with no time to partake in the operas. This has led to another colloquial saying: “Miaoshan girls, opera troupe; Miaoshan daughters-in-law, fire keeper (pronounced ‘ban’).”
