Chinese Mythology: The Legend of the Year (Nian)
Legend has it that in ancient China, there was a monster called “Nian （年）” that was extremely fierce and would come ashore every year to harm people and livestock. Every…
Chinese myth: Yue Lao
In the second year of Yuanhe in the Tang Dynasty, a scholar named Wei Gu went to Qinghe to visit a friend. On the way, he stayed at the Nandian…
Chinese Folktale: Gan Jiang and Mo Ye
In the Spring and Autumn Period, there was a couple of skilled swordsmiths named Gan Jiang （干将） and Mo Ye （莫邪）. They forged two swords for King Helu of Wu,…
Chinese Myth: Yu Gong Moving Mountains
Taihang and Wangwu mountains are very huge. They cover an area of seven hundred li and are seven or eight thousand zhang high. They were originally located to the south…
The Celestial Dog Devouring the Moon: Mythology, Folklore, and Cultural Significance in Chinese Tradition
In Chinese mythology, the “Celestial Dog Devouring the Moon” is a captivating tale that blends astronomical phenomena with ancient beliefs. Originally described in the Classic of Mountains and Seas (Shan…
The Legend of Carp Leaping Through the Dragon Gate: A Myth of Transformation in Chinese Culture
Introduction: The myth of carp leaping through the Dragon Gate is one of China’s most iconic legends, depicting Yellow River carp overcoming daunting challenges to transform into divine dragons. This…
He Xiangu: The Taoist Goddess of Mercy and Enlightenment
Introduction: He Xiangu is the only female member of the Eight Immortals in Chinese Taoism, embodying purity, wisdom, and benevolence. Often depicted holding a lotus or peach, she is revered…
The Legend of Lu Dongbin and the Biting Dog: A Classic Chinese Mythological Fable
Character Profile Lu Dongbin, also known as Lü Yan, was a renowned Tang Dynasty Taoist and one of the Eight Immortals. His iconic image features a white-haired elder carrying a…
The Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea: A Timeless Chinese Mythological Saga
Character Introduction The Eight Immortals are eight Taoist deities in Chinese mythology: Tieguai Li (Li Xuan): Tang Dynasty beggar with a medicine gourd Zhongli Quan (Han Zhongli): Han Dynasty general…
Nezha’s Sea Adventure: The Rebellious Hero in Chinese Mythology
Introduction to Nezha Nezha is one of the most recognizable teenage heroes in Chinese mythology, famous for his three heads, six arms, and magical weapons like the Wind-Fire Wheels and…