This is the first of our mythological creatures from East Asia and can we just say: we are so excited to share these!
For this week, we’re looking at the traditional Chinese dragon, also known as the East Asian Dragon. This creature is widely known within and beyond Asian history, used as symbols of great strength and honor. But let’s jump right in and see what we could possibly teach you!
Chinese Dragon | China
“Long, serpentine creature with elemental powers.”
Basic Facts:
- Don’t be fooled! The serpent-like animal is the more commonly known dragons. They’re also described as turtles and fish.
- The dragon usually has powers to control water, rainfall, typhoons, and floods (do you see the common trait of strength behind this all?)
- Scholar Wang Fu of the Han dynasty recorded myths about long dragons having distinct features. It’s an interesting Google search!
- Depictions of the East Asian dragon sometimes feature a flaming pearl. It’s symbolic of spiritual energy, wisdom, prosperity, power, immortality, thunder, or the moon.
- Wings? Nope! East Asian dragons fly with the help of their mystical powers, nothing physical helps them soar through the sky.