The four divine beasts （四大神兽） are important symbols in ancient Chinese culture, namely the Qing Long （青龙）, the Bai Hu （白虎）, the Zhu Que （朱雀） and the Xuan Wu （玄武）. These sacred beasts not only have an important position in culture, but also incorporate the concepts of the five elements and directions, representing the east, west, south and north respectively. The historical background of the Four Divine Beasts can be traced back to the ancient worship of the stars and hosts, which were not only mythical creatures, but also products of the ancient people’s understanding of and worship of the heavens. These sacred beasts also had important applications in ancient astronomical observation and divination, reflecting the ancient people’s reverence and understanding of the natural world.
In a long time ago, there were four great mythical creatures，Also known as the “Four Elements”..
The Qing Long is the god of the east, representing spring and associated with the element of wood.
The Qing Long symbolizes vitality and prosperity, and is the embodiment of the Long.
In ancient times, Longs were the most powerful mythical creatures and represented imperial power.
The Qing Long has a snake-like body, a crocodile-like head, deer-like horns, fish-like scales, and eagle-like claws.
It can summon wind and rain, and ride on clouds and mist.
The Bai Hu represents the west and is associated with the element of metal, corresponding to autumn.
The Bai Hu represents slaughter in the Four Symbols and has a fierce appearance.
Its whole body is covered with white fur, resembling a huge tiger.
The Bai Hu represents war and power, and is the guardian of justice.
Ancient armies also used it as a symbol, saying that it could ward off evil and avoid disasters.
The Vermilion Bird is the god of the south, representing summer and associated with the element of fire.
The Vermilion Bird is unlike ordinary birds; it resembles a phoenix and is covered with fire.
People say that the Vermilion Bird is the embodiment of the sun and can fly in the sky.
It represents rebirth and immortality, and is a symbol of good luck and nobility.
The Black Tortoise represents the north and is associated with the element of water, corresponding to winter.
The appearance of the Black Tortoise is a combination of a turtle and a snake (or Long).
Its back is covered with a turtle shell, surrounded by snakes, symbolizing longevity.
In Taoist philosophy, the Black Tortoise also represents the balance of yin and yang.
The images of these four great mythical creatures can be seen in many places.
Such as in art design, architectural decoration, and sculptural artworks.
They add artistic and cultural connotations to these places.
The four great mythical creatures together guard our country and people.
They are our important beliefs and represent prosperity and happiness.