Chinese rice paper lanterns

There are many theories about the origin of paper lanterns in China, and the most popular legend in China describes the origin of lanterns like this. Buddhism was first introduced to China about 2,000 years ago. After that, when the moon was full, people could see fairies dancing in the moonlight. Every subsequent year, people would come out on the same day to watch the fairies dance. However, once dark clouds filled the sky, and then the fairy was no longer seen dancing. People were very disappointed, so they started lighting torches and looking for fairies everywhere. But no matter how hard people search, they can't find the fairy. In this way, from that year on, people will go looking for fairies on that night every year. This gradually became a custom in Yanbian, and the torches used to search for fairies were replaced by paper lanterns.

In ancient China during the feudal period, private school principals would often light portable lanterns for students on the first day of each school year in the hope that the students would gain merit in the imperial examinations. Lanterns also have the meaning of giving birth to a child early. When entering the bridal chamber, someone will hold a lantern.

The most poetic aspect of lanterns is the Lantern Festival, which falls on the 15th of the first lunar month each year. Whenever the festive night falls, various lanterns will be hung out. There will also be a large-scale lantern tour, theatrical performances, fireworks and dance shows, and the hustle and bustle will last until late. More interesting and attractive activities include lantern riddles and so on. In the 5th century, the Lantern Festival had become an official holiday, and from the 10th century onwards, it became a law to hang lanterns during the festival.