Liangzhou students seek Confucian blessings before gaokao

In ancient times, the title of Zhuangyuan was conferred upon whomever achieved first place in the highest imperial examination.

Among a number of historical sites in Wen Temple, Zhuangyuan bridge is unmissable. As its name suggests, it's exclusively for the candidate who has become Zhuangyuan to cross. "Over the decades, it has become a tradition that students who attend the final exam will come and pay a visit to make a wish. They tie red ribbons on Zhuangyuan bridge. The goal is pure and simple-to succeed in the examination in order to get into a good college," Ji says.

It's a peaceful and scenic yard where students come with peers or family members. Some appear relaxed enough, while others look more solemn, as if they have the full weight of the national college entrance examination, or gaokao, on their shoulders. Exam day is, without doubt, a big deal for them.

Qi Jie, 18, from Liangzhou district came with her father. "I've never been here before, but I've heard a lot from people around me. I just feel peaceful and relaxed at this moment. I'm confident that I can do well in the exam."

Another five students spent an hour traveling down from Huangyang town to Liangzhou for the exam, which took place over June 7-9, and visited the Wen Temple for blessings. They say the exam gives them the opportunity to see a bigger world, and they are here to wish that they get accepted by their first-choice college.

Tian Zhaoliang from Wuwei No 6 Middle School is taking the exam for the second year. He says gaokao is a huge pressure.

For too many students, it's nearly the one and only opportunity to change their life. A short visit to Wen Temple will not only put the students' minds at ease, but is also psychological therapy for their parents. It's nothing about feudalistic superstition, but just about good wishes. In some sense, the practice manifests the traditional culture of Liangzhou.

It is estimated that the temple received 4,600 visits between June 1 and June 7. This year, the candidates for the final exam in Wuwei reached 16,400, with almost a half from Liangzhou.