Villagers call out to the mountain for a bountiful tea harvest. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_f7e6400b5aad]

As the solar term Jingzhe (Awakening of Insects) approaches on March 5, Wengjiashan village in Hangzhou's West Lake scenic area is preparing for its annual "Calling the Mountain" ritual, a centuries-old folk tradition in which tea farmers chant blessings for a bountiful harvest.

Located in the core production zone of Hangzhou's most-famed Longjing tea, Wengjiashan is surrounded by more than 1,000 mu (67 hectares) of terraced tea fields. For generations, villagers have marked Jingzhe — a time when spring thunder is said to awaken nature — by gathering in the hills to shout in unison, "Tea, sprout!" The chant is believed to awaken dormant buds and serves as an expression of reverence for heaven and earth.

Revived five years ago after being rediscovered in clan records and local oral history, the ritual now blends traditional ceremony with public participation. This year's event will feature traditional recitations, tea-offering rites and a collective mountain call open to residents and visitors alike.

Set against mist-covered hills overlooking West Lake to the north and the Qiantang River to the south, the gathering also offers panoramic spring views from Hangzhou's highest-altitude urban village.

The event will run from 9 am to 11:30 am on March 5 near Nangaofeng Peak. Participation is free, with organizers inviting the public to join local tea growers in welcoming spring and praying for a fruitful harvest.

Villagers play the drum to wish for a strong harvest. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_f7e6400b5aad]