Ever since the Wei-Chin period in the 3rd century A.D., Ching Ming has been observed on the 3rd day of the 3rd month on the lunar calendar. This date coincides with the end of winter and the arrival of spring, when everything in nature begins returning to life, so sweeping the gravesites is seen as an expression of respect for one's ancestors. In 1935, the government designated April 5 as "Tomb Sweeping Day", to correspond approximately with the 3rd day of the 3rd month on the lunar calendar, which further heightens the significance of this occasion.

      The day before Ching Ming is known as "Cold Food Day." According to legend, this tradition commemorates Chieh Chih-tuei, a man of letters who refused to serve as an official offered by the ruler Wen Kung, hid himself on a mountain. In order to force Chieh to come out of the mountain, the ruler set a fire out on the mountain. However, Chieh chose to remain there and die rather than to emerge from his hideout. Out of respect for Chieh's uprightness and integrity, Wen Kung designated the day of his death as "Cold Food Day," on which people were prohibited from making fires, even for cooking. Because Ching Ming Day and Cold Food Day occur on consecutive calendar days, the two traditions have been combined into the modern Ching Ming observance.

      On Ching Ming Day, all family members go to the tombs of their ancestors. Maintenance of the grave involves cleaning the site, weeding, and repairing any damages to the tomb itself. After cleaning the tomb, families begin to worship their ancestors, first by offering sacrifices to the God of the Earth who is charged with protecting the grave, and then by lighting incense in prayer and burning paper money to the departed. The third part of the day's ritual, "securing paper," also known as "hanging paper," involves using a stone to secure golden or multicolored rectangular-shaped paper on the tombstone, which symbolizes the giving of hanging money to one's ancestors.

      Since most cemeteries are located on hillsides in the countryside or outskirts of town, upon completing the tomb sweeping rites, many families will take advantage of the fine spring weather by going on a family outing. These activities have become an important part of Tomb Sweeping Day as a time for families to enjoy time together.