Historical Encyclopedia
China is one of the oldest and greatest civilizations, whose culture and traditions have developed over thousands of years. The national traditions and customs of China embody a unique combination of philosophical concepts, historical events, and cultural features. These traditions retain their importance and relevance in the everyday lives of the Chinese people, and they play a key role in preserving the national identity and cultural heritage of the country.
Family occupies a central place in Chinese culture. In traditional Chinese society, family relationships were based on deep respect for elders, support, and mutual care. A key element of family traditions is respect for parents and ancestors, which is expressed in holidays, ceremonies, and ritual practices, such as celebrating the Chinese New Year, when families come together to honor their ancestors.
The family hierarchy in China traditionally includes respect for elders, which permeates not only family life but also social relationships as a whole. Senior family members hold the most authority, and their advice and decisions are considered important for everyone else.
The Chinese New Year (or Spring Festival) is the most important holiday in China, celebrated in the early days of the new lunar year. This holiday is accompanied by numerous traditions and rituals aimed at cleansing bad influences and attracting luck for the coming year. One of the most popular traditions is the giving of red envelopes with money—"hongbao"—which are given to children and the elderly to bring them good luck and happiness.
On the day of the Chinese New Year, it is also customary to hold family dinners, decorate homes with red lanterns and paper cuttings, and set off fireworks to drive away evil spirits. Each of these customs has deep roots and symbolizes purification, renewal, and hope for a better future.
Tea is an integral part of Chinese culture. The Chinese know over 1,000 types of tea, and their tea-drinking traditions have a centuries-old history. The most famous is the tea ceremony, which includes not only the process of brewing tea but also the art of communication and careful attention to each stage of the process. An important part of tea culture is the tea ceremony, which involves several participants, each having their role in creating an atmosphere of respect and harmony.
Special attention is paid not only to the tea itself but also to the teaware used for brewing. Chinese teapots are characterized by delicacy and elegance, symbolizing tradition and respect for ancient practices. In some Chinese families, the tea ceremony is a daily ritual that strengthens family and friendship bonds.
In addition to the Chinese New Year, other important holidays are celebrated in China, such as the Mid-Autumn Festival, Spring Festival, and Dragon Boat Festival. Each of these holidays is accompanied by various traditions and rituals that reflect vital aspects of Chinese culture, such as the connection with nature, ancestor worship, and respect for family values.
The Mid-Autumn Festival, for example, is well-known for the tradition of giving mooncakes to each other, symbolizing unity and family well-being. The Dragon Boat Festival is associated with ancient ritual boat races, as well as offerings and ritual food to ensure luck and health throughout the year.
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is an essential part of national culture. It includes practices such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage, and Qigong (health-promoting exercises). TCM is based on the philosophical teachings of Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism, which emphasize harmony and balance in the body and spirit of a person.
There are also ancient Chinese practices such as feng shui—the art of harmonizing space aimed at improving a person's health and well-being through the proper placement of objects in the surrounding space. These practices remain popular in Chinese society and beyond, playing an essential role in the modern lives of the Chinese people.
In Chinese culture, ancestors hold an important place, and their worship is one of the most important traditions. The Chinese believe that the souls of their ancestors continue to live and influence the lives of their descendants. Important elements of this worship include ritual ceremonies, such as offering sacrifices and tributes at the graves of ancestors on memorial days and significant holidays.
Ancestor worship day is not only a moment for the Chinese to express their gratitude and respect but also a day when they can gather as a family to remember their deceased relatives and honor their memory. These customs strengthen family ties and uphold the tradition of respecting older generations.
Chinese culture is also manifested through art, which encompasses painting, calligraphy, music, and dance. Special attention is given to Chinese painting and calligraphy, which are considered important forms of self-expression and aesthetic value. Chinese painting, in particular, is known for its minimalism and attention to nature. This art includes images of landscapes, animals, and plants, reflecting the importance of harmony with the environment.
Music and dance also play an important role in Chinese culture, especially in traditional forms such as opera (for example, Beijing opera), where music, theatrical performances, and acrobatics are combined. These art forms have developed in China over thousands of years and continue to be an important part of the cultural life of the country.
The three main philosophical and religious schools of China—Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism—deeply influence the culture and customs of the country. These teachings form the foundation of the Chinese worldview and influence the everyday life of the Chinese, their relationships with the surrounding world and with each other.
Buddhism, brought to China from India, has a tremendous impact on Chinese culture, especially in aspects such as art, architecture, and philosophy. Taoism, with its teachings on harmony with nature and the pursuit of inner peace, is of great importance to the Chinese in their quest for personal happiness and mental balance. Confucianism, with its emphasis on family values, respect for elders, and social harmony, has remained the foundation of Chinese society for thousands of years.