Full coverage: 2017 Spring Festival

Thousands of visitors thronged Beijing's Ditan Park for the annual sacrificial ceremony. Outfitted in a robe of yellow silk embroidered with dragons. Qi Xue'en performs the Qing-Dynasty emperor, Qianlong in the ceremony.

Though his job is just a 30 minute performance, in order to understand his role more deeply. Qi has put in great efforts.

"Although I don't have to say anything in my performance, I still have to pay attention to many complicated rituals. And as I'm playing the role of an emperor, I should also know something about history," he said.

With ample preparations, Qi feels much more confident when performing. But after the ceremony, he has some more tasks to do. Removing all of his make-up, he then rushes to the gate to check visitors' tickets.

Two completely different roles. Qi feels comfortable in both. 

"I'm fine with both jobs here, no matter whether I'm playing an emperor or checking tickets. They are just my jobs. I have to do them well, and ensure the safety of others," he said.

 Having played the part of emperor at Ditan Park for 27 years. Qi hasn't been able to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year with his family in all those years. Now he has two apprentices and several pupils. He hopes that when he retires, his pupils will play his role during the Spring Festival, and pass on the New Year's greetings to more and more people.