Chinese lanterns why important

Lanterns were originally used in China to provide illumination, and were eventually incorporated as a part of Buddhist worship. Lanterns can often be found decorating both homes and public spaces. Historically, Chinese lanterns were made of a soft, delicate paper or silk, with bamboo, wood, wire or rattan used to hold it all together.

There are plenty of ways that you and your family can get involved and take a do-it-yourself approach to the Lantern Festival this year. Please note that we do not recommend using either one of these homemade lanterns to house an actual flame, as that is a fire hazard.

The second form is called Crystal Magic. This type can be made in any geometric form, from square to hexagonal, and everything in between. Crystal Magic lanterns are typically ornately decorated, reminding viewers of one of their original purposes as palace lanterns.

So the next time you see a big red lantern hanging outside your local Chinese restaurant, remember its humble origins and think about the Buddha, who inspired it all. We and our partners use cookies to better understand your needs, improve performance and provide you with personalised content and advertisements. To allow us to provide a better and more tailored experience please click "OK". Sign Up. Travel Guides. Videos Beyond Hollywood Hungerlust Pioneers of love.

A Brief History of Chinese Lanterns. Chinese lantern and Chinese Lantern Festival Lantern, especially the red lantern, always reminds Chinese people of a grand traditional Chinese festival - Lantern Festival.

On that day, Chinese families will get together to celebrate the grand festival and enjoy beautiful lantern at the night of the day. China Travel Guide. Chinese Culture. Ask a Question. Code: I accept the Privacy Policy. Chinese Lantern. As one of traditional Chinese handicrafts, once you see the Chinese lantern, you will know it is a symbol of China. The fascinating and warm light provided by a Chinese lantern will make you understand why they're so popular and well known.

Every fifteenth day of first Chinese lunar month on Chinese Lantern Festival, people will hang red lantern, which symbolizes family reunion. Traditional Chinese lantern blends the skills of painting art and workmanship of paper cutting art, Chinese embroidery art and so on. Chinese red lanterns. Chinese Lantern, an important sort of ancient lamps, was recorded to be widely used and reach its peak in the eighth century during the middle Tang dynasty. The decoration and art featured on lanterns can also have different meanings.

Often, decorative writings are used on lanterns that convey best wishes for a long and healthy life and a wealthy future. Chinese Dragon designs represent strength, flowers and butterflies represent happiness, bamboo designs represent resilience, and plants signify growth. Traditionally, there were three major types of Chinese lanterns: hanging, flying, and floating. In recent times, a new type of lantern has become increasingly popular: giant, colorful lanterns representing various motifs.

Hanging lanterns are particularly common during festivals as they are said to bring good luck. During the Spring Festival, red lanterns are meant to scare the Nian monster away. They grace countless venues from the beginning of Spring Festival to its conclusion 15 days later on the Lantern Festival. Hanging Chinese lanterns outside one's home is a popular activity during Spring Festival.

Flying lanterns, which are propelled by hot air generated by a little flame inside, are like miniature hot air balloons. These are only released at night during special occasions like the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Usually, flying Chinese lanterns are released in large quantities, creating a mesmerizing effect. Flying Chinese lanterns are beautiful, but they can also be a fire hazard.

A third type, known as floating lanterns, are also used during large-scale events, most notably the Dragon Boat Festival. They function in the same way as flying lanterns, but they have varying shapes, including lotus flowers and hearts.

When the light from the lanterns reflects on the water, an optical illusion is created and it seems as though the lanterns are floating in the water as well as in the sky. Some lanterns are designed to float on water.