This time of year, the most popular Chinese character around town is “fu”, pronounced, “foo.” A friend once explained that “fu” means “good fortune” or “blessings” and this time of year, it is appropriate to wish your friends and relatives “fu” for the New Year. As with many traditions associated with Chinese New Year, “fu” is not […]
China
Chinese New Year: The Basics
The traditions and rituals of Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, are centuries old and remain strong among those who celebrate this festive holiday. This year, the fifteen-day celebration will kick off on Sunday evening, January 22, with the traditional New Year’s Eve feast. For Chinese families, however, preparations begin well before the […]
The Legend of China’s Kitchen God
Photo: Typical offerings for the Kitchen God. Daoists believe that the Kitchen God was once a mortal man born into a wealthy family. Unfortunately, he later squandered his inheritance and then sold his wife to pay his debts. He became blind and wandered the streets begging for food. One day, his wife, who had found […]