Chinese Mythical Creatures&Legends
Mythical Creatures
Dragon
Powers-The dragon is a being of water and the bringer of power and excellence.The dragon represents yang, the male aspect of yin&yang.The Chinese believed in dragon lines,or the veins of the earth.It is said if you build on top of these mythical lines you will face the wrath of a dragon.
Kirin/Qilin
Look-The Quilin has many similarities to a dragon most noticeably thick eyelashes and a thick flowing mane that seems to defy gravity.But unlike the dragons serpent like body the Quilins body is shorter and more horse/equine like.
Powers-Quilin have been associated with luck,good omens,protection,prosperity,success,and longevity.Also when a good ruler or sage passes on a Quilin will appear. Quilin can tell if a person is pure or malicious/bad.Even thought the Quilin is naturally peaceful it will attack any malicious person trying to hurt a pure one.
Xiezhi/Shenyang
Guardian Lions
FengHuang
Meaning-The FengHuang is a symbol of virtue and grace.Its head represents virtue the wings represent duty,the back represents propriety,the abdomen is credibility, and the chest represents mercy. The FengHuang also represents yin in yin&yang.Because of this the FengHuang is commonly found in wedding decorations along with the dragon.
Nian
Weakness-The Nian is said to fear loud noises and the color red.This is why on Chinese New Years the Chinese hang bright red lanterns and loud fireworks/firecrackers for fear of the beast eating there children.
Legends/Famous Chinese Creatures
Chinese Zodiac
Tianlong
Time- The name Tianlong has been used since the Zhou dynasty and is still being used today.