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Striking bells has been a traditional way for the Chinese to greet the New Year since ancient times.
In Chinese history, bells were struck not only to mark the passage of time, but also as a symbol of imperial authority and religious sacredness.
The tradition started during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) when saying goodbye to the old year and welcoming the New Year.
It is said that the number signifies the 12 months, 24 solar periods and 72 climate divisions and other natural phenomena of the lunar year.
Buddhists also believe that people have 108 worries, and striking the bell 108 times is believed to remove all of them.
Nowadays people believe that striking the bell will bring luck and good fortune throughout the New Year.
Daming Temple of Yangzhou, Jiangsu province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
The Daming Temple is a national 4A scenic spot. Built during the Liusong reign period (457-464) of the Southern Dynasty (420-589), the temple is a national cultural treasure for its religious buildings, relics, and beautiful gardens.
It was also a renowned temple during the ancient times. Many noted monks, emperors, princes and marquises, as well as cultural and literary celebrities, have visited the temple over its long history.
The renowned Chinese Master Jianzhen (688-763) used to be the head of the temple before he got an invitation from Japanese emissary monks to spread "vinaya", the teachings of the Buddha, in Japan in 742.