China is the birthplace of kites, and it's a great idea to buy one as a gift in Beijing. Most people believe they were invented 2,500 years ago, during the Spring and Autumn Period, by the famous Chinese philosopher Mozi. It is said he used wood to create a "flying bird" that flew in the sky for a whole day.
[i:21:j]Before they were widely used for leisure purposes, kites were mostly used by the Chinese military to accomplish a range of missions: test the wind, measure distance, aid communication, and even help people escape. In modern times, kites are mainly used for entertainment. International events are held around the country where people fly kites to show off their special kite-making and kite-flying skills.
Cultural Note: The famous Battle of Gaxia was won by a Han general who achieved victory by weakening his enemy's will to fight. He did this by ordering his soldiers to sing songs that reminded the enemy soldiers of their homes. He also flew kites with flutes attached that made music to accompany the singing. Hearing this, many of the enemy soldiers felt homesick and fled the battlefield.
Starting in the Tang dynasty, kites were used more and more as a tool for entertainment than a military device. Royal family members who lived inside the imperial palace started the tradition of flying kites. Soon the commoners followed suit and kite-flying became a popular activity.
But during the Ming dynasty, kites were once again brought on the battlefield. Ming generals found that they could fly kites to carry explosives and bombard the enemy. It turned out to be a very effective tactic that helped bring many victories to the Chinese army.
Different kite-making styles have developed in different regions of China over the years. The six "Kite Cities" have their own unique styles: Beijing, Kaifeng, Tianjin, Weifang, Nantong, and Yangjiang.
Weifang is sometimes called the "Kite Capital of the World." It is believed the first kite was invented in this city. The largest kite museum in the world is here, and it covers an area of over 8,100 square meters. Every year, kite fans from all over the world come to Weifang to watch and take part in the annual International Kite Festival. The local kites are famous for their sophisticated craftsmanship.
The local artisans in Beijing are said to be capable of making the most exquisite kites in all of China. Cao Xueqin, Jin Fuzhong, and Ha Changyin are reputed to be the three most famous local kite masters who developed three unique local styles. People like their kites for the great designs, vivid patterns, and light frames.
[i:22:j]Kites produced in the other four "Kite Cities" are also famous for their distinct styles. Kites made in Nantong, for example, are able to produce beautiful sounds in the sky because of whistles attached to them.
What you need to know: Shopping for exquisite kites in Beijing's local shops is an eye-opening experience. If you are not familiar with kites, remember a simple rule: only select the ones that show a high level of craftsmanship and are made of great materials. Depending on how you want to use your kites, you should choose those that are made of either pure silk or nylon. Pure silk kites are better as decorations, and nylon kites are better for flying. The frames of kites are also a good indicator of quality. You must check them to see if they are broken or have cracks. If you have personal shopper assist you in Beijing, you can ask them for professional advice.
[i:21:j]Before they were widely used for leisure purposes, kites were mostly used by the Chinese military to accomplish a range of missions: test the wind, measure distance, aid communication, and even help people escape. In modern times, kites are mainly used for entertainment. International events are held around the country where people fly kites to show off their special kite-making and kite-flying skills.
Cultural Note: The famous Battle of Gaxia was won by a Han general who achieved victory by weakening his enemy's will to fight. He did this by ordering his soldiers to sing songs that reminded the enemy soldiers of their homes. He also flew kites with flutes attached that made music to accompany the singing. Hearing this, many of the enemy soldiers felt homesick and fled the battlefield.
Starting in the Tang dynasty, kites were used more and more as a tool for entertainment than a military device. Royal family members who lived inside the imperial palace started the tradition of flying kites. Soon the commoners followed suit and kite-flying became a popular activity.
But during the Ming dynasty, kites were once again brought on the battlefield. Ming generals found that they could fly kites to carry explosives and bombard the enemy. It turned out to be a very effective tactic that helped bring many victories to the Chinese army.
Different kite-making styles have developed in different regions of China over the years. The six "Kite Cities" have their own unique styles: Beijing, Kaifeng, Tianjin, Weifang, Nantong, and Yangjiang.
Weifang is sometimes called the "Kite Capital of the World." It is believed the first kite was invented in this city. The largest kite museum in the world is here, and it covers an area of over 8,100 square meters. Every year, kite fans from all over the world come to Weifang to watch and take part in the annual International Kite Festival. The local kites are famous for their sophisticated craftsmanship.
The local artisans in Beijing are said to be capable of making the most exquisite kites in all of China. Cao Xueqin, Jin Fuzhong, and Ha Changyin are reputed to be the three most famous local kite masters who developed three unique local styles. People like their kites for the great designs, vivid patterns, and light frames.
[i:22:j]Kites produced in the other four "Kite Cities" are also famous for their distinct styles. Kites made in Nantong, for example, are able to produce beautiful sounds in the sky because of whistles attached to them.
What you need to know: Shopping for exquisite kites in Beijing's local shops is an eye-opening experience. If you are not familiar with kites, remember a simple rule: only select the ones that show a high level of craftsmanship and are made of great materials. Depending on how you want to use your kites, you should choose those that are made of either pure silk or nylon. Pure silk kites are better as decorations, and nylon kites are better for flying. The frames of kites are also a good indicator of quality. You must check them to see if they are broken or have cracks. If you have personal shopper assist you in Beijing, you can ask them for professional advice.
About the Author:
Author A. Lao has studied Chinese culture and history for years. He assists a Beijing personal shopper who helps tourists find unique Chinese items. From time to time, he plans shopping trips in Beijing.
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