On the afternoon of the 29th, the “Wu-Yue Culture Lecture Series” commenced at the Hangzhou Dianzi University Information Engineering College. Professor Du Wenyu, Honorary President of the Chinese Tang Dynasty History Society and a professor and doctoral advisor at the College of History and Culture at Shaanxi Normal University, delivered a special report titled The Characteristics of Folk Beliefs in the Wu-Yue Region.

During the lecture, Professor Du used vivid language and detailed historical facts and examples to explain the concept of folk beliefs, the regional characteristics of the Wu-Yue Kingdom, the unique aspects of folk beliefs across different areas during the Wu-Yue period, and the deities worshiped in these folk beliefs. His interpretation of the folk belief culture of the Wu-Yue Kingdom was insightful and easy to understand.

What are folk beliefs? Professor Du believes that any deity, ritual, or behavior widely revered by the people should be considered a folk belief. The folk beliefs during the Wu-Yue Kingdom had distinct regional characteristics, such as the culture of divine songs, the belief in King Yan of the State Xu, and the worship of water and sea gods.

“Geographical environment, productivity levels, philosophy, and ethics all contribute to a region’s cultural mindset,” said Professor Du. The Wu-Yue Kingdom consisted of one army and thirteen prefectures, covering present-day Zhejiang, southern Jiangsu, and northern Fujian. It adhered to the principle of “serving China well and ensuring regional stability,” creating a stable environment for economic and social prosperity. As a result, productivity levels increased rapidly, and the population reached 550,000 households. Culturally, the Wu-Yue region was more open, free, easy-going, and romantic compared to the Central Plains, with Hangzhou being known as the “Buddhist Kingdom of the Southeast.” “Wu-Yue culture, as an integral part of Chinese culture, not only enriched the treasure trove of ancient Chinese culture but also left a valuable historical and cultural heritage for future generations.”

The lecture highlighted new perspectives and was thematically focused, offering attendees a deeper understanding of the scope and essence of Wu-Yue culture. This, in turn, helps enhance cultural awareness, confidence, and the study, revitalization, and sharing of Wu-Yue culture, continually polishing the cultural brand of Wu-Yue.

The Wu-Yue Culture Lecture Series is organized by the District Publicity Department and the District Federation of Social Science Associations. This series is a long-term initiative aimed at promoting and popularizing Wu-Yue culture. In 2024, designated as the “Year of Wu-Yue Culture Display,” the lecture series will further elevate the academic level of the speakers and diversify the topics and popular science content. This will allow residents of Lin’an to enjoy the expertise of domestic Wu-Yue culture scholars without leaving their hometown.