When the daughter of Hong Kong actress Weng Hong (翁虹) turned eighteen, she didn't want a modern party. Instead, her family organized a traditional Jiji Li (及笄礼), a Chinese coming-of-age ceremony for young women. The celebration, held in full Hanfu attire, was a beautiful and meaningful departure from the Western-style birthdays common today. This deliberate choice highlights a growing trend of cultural rediscovery, where ancient traditions are being revived to mark significant life milestones with a profound sense of heritage and identity.
A Ceremony of Red and Respect
The centerpiece of the event was the young woman known online as Crystal, dressed in a vibrant crimson Ming Dynasty-style Hanfu. The elaborate outfit and intricate hair accessories, including a carefully chosen hairpin from her mother, transformed her. She carried herself with a grace that resonated with the ceremony's solemnity, appearing every bit the poised young noblewoman from a historical drama. The visual impact was powerful, connecting her to a lineage of Chinese women who have participated in this ritual for centuries.
Her parents were equally invested in the authenticity of the day. Weng Hong and her husband, Liu Guanting (刘冠廷), dressed in traditional scholarly and aristocratic attire, fully embodying their roles. They spent a week meticulously preparing, from selecting the perfect venue to coordinating every detail of their clothing. Their dedication went beyond aesthetics; they consulted a etiquette teacher to ensure every gesture and ritual was performed correctly, demonstrating their deep respect for the tradition.
The most emotional moment came when Crystal performed the traditional kneel and bow to her parents. This act of reverence and gratitude moved her mother to tears, a raw and genuine reaction that underscored the ceremony's emotional weight. It was more than a performance; it was a heartfelt acknowledgment of her journey into adulthood and a tribute to the family bond, all framed within a powerful cultural context.
Legacy in the Limelight
The ceremony also put a spotlight on the family's striking presence. Weng Hong, renowned for her role as the captivating cat demon in the classic series Sunny Piggy, has aged gracefully. Appearing with minimal makeup, she radiated an elegant composure. Her husband, Liu Guanting, cut a dignified figure in his period costume, the couple's shared poise making them a visually harmonious pair. Their obvious pride and joy added a layer of warmth to the formal proceedings.
The resemblance between mother and daughter is unmistakable. Crystal has inherited her mother's expressive features and commanding presence. This is not the first time they have showcased their connection through traditional wear; during the Mid-Autumn Festival, they posed together in matching Qipao, their synchronized elegance captivating followers. Their relationship appears to be one of mutual admiration and support, evident in past gestures like Crystal's public birthday tribute to her mother.
Dubbed one of the most beautiful "star kids," Crystal has grown up in the public eye. While she leads a relatively normal life abroad as a student, she occasionally models for her family's clothing business. Her social media reveals a grounded and creative individual. This sophisticated and culturally rich coming-of-age ceremony has only amplified public interest, with many followers expressing hope that she will formally enter the entertainment industry, seeing in her the same star quality that made her mother a household name.
