Deities & Legends

Dive into the ancient mythology and folk religions that protect households, govern wealth, and inspire the deepest romantic legends of China.

Chang'e & The Jade Rabbit

Chang'e & The Jade Rabbit

嫦娥与玉兔

The bittersweet myth of a woman who swallowed the elixir of immortality and floated to the moon, becoming its eternal, …

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Qu Yuan

Qu Yuan

屈原

The tragic Chu state minister and foundational Chinese poet whose sacrifice birthed the Dragon Boat Festival.

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The Cowherd and Weaver Girl

The Cowherd and Weaver Girl

牛郎织女

The foundational myth of the Chinese Valentine's Day, explaining the cosmic separation of the stars Altair and Vega by …

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The Door Gods (Menshen)

The Door Gods (Menshen)

门神

Fierce, weapon-wielding guardian deities pasted in pairs on the front doors of homes to physically block negative …

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The God of Wealth (Caishen)

The God of Wealth (Caishen)

财神爷

The highly revered deity of prosperity, welcomed into homes and businesses on the fifth day of the lunar new year with …

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The Jade Emperor (Yu Huang)

The Jade Emperor (Yu Huang)

玉皇大帝

The highest-ranking deity in the Taoist pantheon, who dictates the fate of mortals and receives the annual reports of …

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The Kitchen God (Zao Jun)

The Kitchen God (Zao Jun)

灶王爷 / 灶君

The domestic deity who resides in the kitchen stove, recording the family's deeds to report to Heaven at the end of the …

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The Legend of Nian

The Legend of Nian

年兽传说

The ancient myth of a terrifying horned beast whose fear of the color red, bright fire, and loud noises shaped the core …

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Zhong Kui (The Ghost Catcher)

Zhong Kui (The Ghost Catcher)

钟馗

The fierce, righteous deity of exorcism in Chinese mythology, whose portrait is hung to ward off malevolent spirits.

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Cultural Highlights

Dive deeper into the rich heritage, culinary delights, and vibrant folklore.

Cultural Diversity

China is home to 56 ethnic groups and countless local beliefs, each adding a unique color to the vast tapestry of Chinese civilization.