Jiuri Mountain Wind-Praying Inscriptions
九日山祈风石刻
The Song Dynasty cliff inscriptions record the prayer rituals for the safe voyages of ocean-going merchant ships. The ceremonies were held by state commissioners, local officials and members of the imperial clan in charge of overseas trade in the Song Dynasty (960-1279). Their purpose was to pray for favorable winds to aid voyages.
The inscriptions embody the spiritual impetus that the belief in sea deities provided for trade activities and reflect the state’s power under the Song Dynasty's maritime trade system to promote and manage maritime trade.