Chinese Folk Tales

Special Bonus Episode for UN Chinese Language Day!  Have you ever wondered where the world's oldest continuous writing system came from? Today, we're stepping back thousands of years to meet Cang Jie, the legendary figure believed to have created Chinese characters. Legend says his innovation was so extraordinary that the heavens were moved to shower the earth with grain as a celestial reward – a miraculous event we still celebrate today as Grain Rain (Gǔyǔ).

Would you lose one race to win the whole match? Ancient strategist Sun Bin proved that smart matchups beat raw speed. And sometimes, what looks like bad luck… isn't. From "Tian Ji's Horse Racing" to "Sai Weng Lost His Horse," two stories about timing, patience, and perspective.  (01:04) The Story of Tian Ji's Horse Racing — How to Lose One Race and Win the Game (06:21) The Story of Sai Weng Losing His Horse — When Bad Luck Turns Out to Be Good

From "Bo Le Discerns a Noble Steed" to "Mistaking a Toad for a Horse," two short Chinese horse-related tales tell big lessons about talent, judgment, and flexibility.  (01:05) The story of Bo Le Discerns a Noble Steed (06:21) The story of Mistaking a Toad for a Horse

He rarely spoke. He never boasted. But in the Baoxiang Kingdom, when everyone else failed, the White Dragon Horse drew his sword and revealed his true courage. As the Year of the Horse approaches, listen to this powerful chapter from the classic "Journey to the West."

A dragon-turned horse. A punishment-turned pilgrimage. In this episode of Chinese Folk Tales, we tell the story of the White Dragon Horse from the classic "Journey to the West" — a silent hero for the Year of the Horse.

As the Year of the Horse approaches, we're saddling up for a journey through China's timeless horse tales. From Bo Le spotting true talent, to Tian Ji's clever race, to the White Dragon Horse of Journey to the West—these aren't just old stories. They're lessons in vision, resilience, and strategy. Gallop into the Year of the Horse with us.

In this special episode of "Chinese Folk Tales", our journalist Bianca takes you on an unforgettable journey through Xinjiang — from the vibrant Grand Bazaar of Urumqi to the Frog Alley of Turpan. She bites into freshly baked nang, stands before the legendary Flaming Mountains straight out of the classic novel "Journey to the West", and dives into local life for a truly immersive experience. Curious to know what surprised her most? Hit play and join the adventure! 00:00 — Off to Xinjiang! 02:36 — Urumqi Unveiled: Bazaar Buzz & Nang Coffee 07:20 — Into the Flaming Mountain: Where Monkey King "Left His Mark" 09:57 — Walking Through History: The Jiaohe Ruins 11:13 — Frog Valley Legends 13:24 — Back in Studio: Stories, Snacks & Memories

Over a thousand years ago, an aging doctor discovered that sometimes the best medicine comes in the form of food. In this episode of "Chinese Folk Tales: Tales on a Plate", we follow the story of Shou Zhua Fan – Xinjiang's fragrant lamb pilaf eaten with bare hands which is a dish that heals, nourishes, and forges community connections. More than a dish, it's a story you can taste.

Tender chicken, spicy chilies, saucy potatoes, and chewy noodles – all piled high on one massive plate. More than just food, Big Plate Chicken is a tale of drivers, highways, and the irresistible joy of sharing a meal. In this episode of "Chinese Folk Tales: Tales on a Plate", we dish out the flavorful story behind Dapanji – the "Big Plate Chicken" that won the hearts of many.

Under the blazing sun of the Taklamakan Desert, one shepherd's clumsy mishap gave birth to a timeless treasure. In this bonus episode of "Chinese Folk Tales: Tales on a Plate", we trace the quirky legend of Turhong and his "dough hat" that turned into Xinjiang's most beloved flatbread – Nang. Crispy, golden, and steeped in tradition, Nang is more than food – it's a story shared and enjoyed across vast regions of the world.

Prof. Zhang Juwen argues that translating "龙" as "dragon" perpetuates colonial discourse. The Chinese loong embodies benevolence, ethics, and hope, fundamentally different from the Western concept. True cross-cultural exchange requires a firm challenge to entrenched stereotypes.

Folklore expert Professor Zhang Juwen reveals how ancient Chinese folk tales, while adapting, retain their core ethics, fostering global connections and face-to-face bonding in a digital world.

Once upon a time, the desert kingdom lay choked by yellow dust from raging sandstorms, waiting for a miracle to change its fate. How did it transform into a land renowned for its sweet fruits? This episode reveals the answer. For more captivating tales and videos, follow us on Facebook.

Have you ever wondered how the very first stringed instrument came into being? Maybe this story can explain the birth of the very special Dombra. For more captivating tales and videos, follow us on Facebook.

When times get tough, the Dragon King descends from Heaven to battle the drought – but the arrival of a mysterious demon girl throws everything into disarray. For more captivating tales and videos, follow us on Facebook.

Born in a small village, she captures the king's heart and rises to greatness, leaving a mark on history with her mastery of Xinjiang's unique Muqam music. For more captivating tales and videos, follow us on Facebook.

Gold coins appear where no one expects…Afanti and his trusty donkey are at it again, showing a greedy man that greed isn't golden. For more captivating tales and videos, follow us on Facebook.

Meet the legendary donkey-riding Afanti, renowned for his clever solutions. With the wit sharper than any sword, Afanti can always hatch a clever plan to turn the tables – teaching the arrogant miser an unforgettable a lesson in generosity. For more captivating tales and videos, follow us on Facebook.

In this new series of Chinese Folk Tales, we journey to Xinjiang — the vast and enchanting land in far northwest China, home to many ethnic groups that hold a rich reservoir of stories passed down through generations. It's on this land that a witty man rides his donkey backwards, a sacred lake is guarded by ancient spirits, and girls weave tradition into their long braids. Listen to "Chinese Folk Tales: Xinjiang" and discover a Xinjiang you've never seen before.

Following "Black Myth: Wukong", the new project delves into the legend of Zhong Kui, the fierce ghost hunter of traditional Chinese folklore. For centuries, from the dreams of the Tang Dynasty to the traditions of the Dragon Boat Festival, this figure has been revered as the protector of people and their homes. Now, his legend is ready to come alive again.

"Ne Zha 2" is a global hit, but in China, Nezha has been a legendary folk hero for centuries! Watch the video and discover the classic tale of "Nezha Conquers the Sea"!

The animated blockbuster "Ne Zha 2" has made history—becoming the first Chinese and first Asian film to surpass 10 billion yuan at the box office, securing its place in the global TOP 10! But what about the original legend of Nezha? Has Nezha always been the fearless trailblazer we see on screen? In this episode of "Chinese Folk Tales," we're telling a story full of magic, power, and a spirit that never gives up!

In this video, join us on a journey through time as we unravel a story behind the legendary creature "Loong" and explore how it has come to represent an array of awe-inspiring qualities and blessings.

In this special edition, we're waving goodbye to the Year of the Rabbit and welcoming the Year of the Loong, or the Year of the Chinese Dragon. Join us on a journey through time as we unravel a story behind this legendary creature and explore how it has come to represent an array of awe-inspiring qualities and blessings.

China has some incredible landscapes and science tells us how they have been shaped over millions of years of evolution. Yes, we know about the movements of the earth, of volcanoes, the power of wind and rain. But ancient stories suggest maybe... just maybe other forces have been at work creating the Sun Moon Lake.

Once upon a time, there was a kind and brave young man who ventured up a mountain, fought a monster and saved a princess. This story teaches that doing good things and telling the truth will make everything turn out right.

The ancient story of Mulan is an old favorite of many, made more popular outside China with grand movies in recent years. Join us in reliving the life and times of courageous Mulan.

Do you know that for some people the peacock is a symbol of happiness? The Dai people consider it a holy bird and the traditional Peacock Dance is still very popular nowadays. We have a love story to tell you, from thousands of years ago when Peacock princesses could fly.

A widow is inspired to create a work of such beauty in our next tale that the fairies steal it away. But the story is really about the son's true and steadfast love for his mother.

In this episode, prepare to be spellbound as we explore the extraordinary adventures of King Mu of Zhou, a legendary ruler who embarked on a remarkable voyage into the enchanting realms of magic and wonder.

In this video, let's meet the mythical hero Shen Nong who is said to be the father of the great system of traditional Chinese herbal medicine. It’s said that one day alone, he ate more than 70 different kinds of plants, roots, stems, leaves, and took notes to describe the effect they had on him... According to legend, he was the son of a princess and a heavenly dragon; maybe that made him special and made him able to resist the worst poisons? Or maybe he was an ordinary man, who was either very stupid, or very, very, lucky...

Our story pays tribute to the mythical hero Shen Nong who is said to be the father of the great system of traditional Chinese herbal medicine. When you think about it, there must have been someone many, many years ago who was brave enough to try and work out what plants might heal at the risk of discovering those that harm.

Did you know that many of the things we use today are credited to one man. Check out the video to know the tale of Lu Ban.

I bet you know all about the many, marvellous and ingenious objects Chinese inventors have created over the centuries. But did you know that many of the things we use today are credited to one man? Here we tell the tale of Lu Ban.

The Qixi Festival, which is also known as Chinese Valentine's Day. In this video, we take you to discover the mythical romance between Niulang and Zhinyu, or the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl, who were allowed to meet just once a year. Join us for a captivating journey through ancient "Chinese Folk Tales."

Two lovers take center stage in our next story in one of the great Chinese Folk Tales. Join us for the romance of Zhi Nyu and Niu Lang, the weaving girl and the cowherd who are allowed to meet just once a year.

Our story here is a reminder not to be too self-centered. We learn how sometimes we can get so wrapped up in hunting for our own happiness that we forget to look after others.

Intertwined by fate and bound together through music, this is one of the most well-known stories about friendship in China. Tune in as we unravel the tale of two souls and their unyielding friendship that will warm your heart and inspire you.

This story tells of how a great friendship led to the creation of a beautiful, historic musical instrument. Listen to the legend of Ma Tou Qin, or the horse-head fiddle.

This story is all about how sometimes when we think we have lost something precious we find it has been with us all the time.

The story serves as a cautionary tale, raising awareness about possible repercussions of being needlessly miserly.

Laozi is one of the most famous ancient Chinese philosophers and in our story he tells us that money isn't everything and that maybe we should be happy with what we have.

When you look up into the sky –there is only one sun. But in this story, there were TEN!

Stories often tell us how it's a good idea to be kind, especially to people we don't know. In this tale we find out that kindness can have more than its own reward.

Great things can happen when we work together and in this story we remember the importance of honesty, and the benefits of collaboration.

What does it mean to be clever? Even if you are book smart are you really as clever as you think you are?

This is a story all about greed and how taking more than you need could end up costing you everything.

Revisiting ancient and beloved Chinese Folk Tales because all the best stories have something to teach, and when we hear old folk tales once again it's clear that the moral of the story is as true today as it ever was. Season 3 is coming in June!

Everyone knows the Cinderella story, but did you know that there was a Chinese Cinderella story, from over 1,500 years ago? Instead of a fairy god mother, it was a fish and an old man that helped the Chinese Cinderella get to her ball. Did she have crystal shoes too? Well, sort of but not quite.

The Hua Mountain in China is known for its steepness and legend has it that it was split open by a little boy named Chen Xiang. Why would he do that and how did he do that?