China News carried an article about a phenomenon that took place on the eve of the Chinese New Year: tens and thousands of people lined up outside of Buddhist temples overnight to fight for the opportunity to burn the first incense while making their New Year wishes. At the same time, the temples grasped at the chance to raise the price. It was reported that, this year, one temple in Zhejiang Province priced the first incense at 118,000 yuan (US $19,470). Due to overcrowding, numerous accidents have occurred each year, causing security concerns. In Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, the police force was called in to guard people’s safety. The article said that people carry misconceptions and are misled by the belief that the first incense will make their New Year wishes come true.
Source: China News, February 1, 2014
http://finance.chinanews.com/life/2014/02-01/5801751.shtml