Ningjin Crickets

Ningjin Crickets

　　Ningjin is a land of outstanding people and a vibrant spirit, and its crickets are especially renowned for their bravery and fighting prowess, earning fame across the nation. Every year, hundreds or even thousands of merchants from other regions flock here. These crickets have become a “golden insect” that boosts local farmers’ incomes. In Chaihedian Town, there’s a popular saying: “In February, wealth fills ten thousand households; a single cricket can be worth a thousand gold pieces,” and “A tiny cricket is worth more than an ox.”

　　Ningjin crickets rank first in the country, combining the characteristics of both southern and northern crickets in one. They possess the strengths of southern crickets—such as large size, big heads, broad heads, sturdy legs, and fine coloration—while also exhibiting the physique, fierce fighting spirit, endurance, aggressive style, and tenacity typical of crickets from northern arid regions. They have an indomitable ferocity that often leads them to fight to the death without surrendering. As a result, they have been champions in national cricket-fighting competitions in recent years and have won top honors twice at cricket matches in Hong Kong. This has led to the emergence of a nationwide cricket market, attracting many people from major cities who come here specifically for them.

　　Historically, Ningjin crickets have been famous across northern China and were a designated tribute region for cricket fighting among emperors throughout the dynasties. Hence, there is a folk legend about Ningjin crickets battling Empress Dowager Cixi.