The Yin Yang symbol, also known as the Tai Chi symbol, originated in ancient China and is used in many Asian cultures. In the symbol, the Yin and the Yang are oppositely graphed to form a full circle, representing two opposite but mutually existing elements of the universe. The most famous example of the yin [...]
Chinese weddings are extravagant, vibrant affairs and decorations play a huge part in making the day feel and look special. There are several venues that will need decoration, including the homes of both families, the bridal chamber and the reception site. The bridal chamber is quite easy to decorate, and should be embellished with the [...]
China has produced more things in the world than could possibly be documented, but one that usually comes to mind is silk. It’s a glorious fabric that is smooth to the touch and shines like nothing else. Though the production of silk is found in many parts of the world, the link between China and [...]
There are so many connections between Chinese culture and Korean culture that it can sometimes be hard to truly separate the two. Their histories are closely linked over centuries and you can see many remnants of Chinese culture in Korea today. Korean Language One of the biggest areas where you see the influence of China [...]
In Chinese culture, the symbol of the horse has a great deal of meaning and history. This majestic animal is part of Chinese art, literature and mythology with many different representations through the centuries. The main example of a horse in Chinese culture is its place on the zodiac wheel, but there are many other [...]
Animal symbolism has a long history in Chinese culture. The famed zodiac animals are one such example of creatures representing notable characteristics and themes. However, this is not the only instance of Chinese animal symbolism; there are several creatures, both real and mythical, that represent romantic themes and ideas related to love. Mandarin ducks are [...]
Western Valentine’s Day has become a hugely popular festival in China over the past few years since the Middle Kingdom has opened to the West. Despite the fact that China already has it’s own lover’s day, Qixi Festival, many Chinese, especially young couples, college students and urban socialites, get into Western Valentine’s Day and enjoy [...]
Dragons are one of the most powerful symbols in all of Chinese culture. Thought to be benevolent, auspicious beings and the masters of rain, many Chinese hold to the belief that they are descended from dragons. Images of the dragon date back to ancient China, when they were primitive forms of several animals, including the [...]
Just like most major cultural groups in the world, the Chinese have strong associations with flowers. Flowers are an important gift-giving tradition and there are many special rules about which flowers to give and when to give them. Flowers and plant life feature prominently in traditional Chinese art, and some flowers also have negative connotations [...]
Since the dawn of time, animals have played important symbolic roles throughout China. Both real natural animals and mythical beasts have taken on lucky, auspicious or generally superstitious meanings that still hold up today. Venture into any Chinese restaurant in the West and you are likely to see a small golden cat waving at you [...]