| Discover Beautiful, Traditional Chinese Kites In Beijing |
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China is the birthplace of kites, and it's a great idea to buy one as a gift in Beijing. Most people believe they were invented 2,500 years ago, during the Spring and Autumn Period, by the famous Chinese philosopher Mozi. It is said he used wood to create a "flying bird" that flew in the sky for a whole day.
China is the birthplace of kites, and it's a great idea to buy one as a gift in Beijing. Most people believe they were invented 2,500 years ago, during the Spring and Autumn Period, by the famous Chinese philosopher Mozi. It is said he used wood to create a "flying bird" that flew in the sky for a whole day. [i:21:j]Before they were widely used for leisure purposes, kites were mostly used by the Chinese military to accomplish a range of missions: test the wind, measure distance, aid communication, and even help people escape. In modern times, kites are mainly used for entertainment. International events are held around the country where people fly kites to show off their special kite-making and kite-flying skills. Cultrual Note: A Han general won the famous Battle of Gaxia by applying kites in the battlefield. According to historians, he flew kites in the sky with flutes attached that made music while his soldiers sang songs. This made the enemy soldiers feel homesick and they ran off the battlefield. Kites were used more as a tool for entertainment than a military instrument during the Tang dynasty. At first, only royal family members could play with kites. Later it became popular among commoners who flew them on important events and festivals. In the Ming dynasty, kites were once again used for military purposes. Many emperors ordered their soldiers to fly kites that carried explosives. The explosives would fall on the enemy and gave the Chinese a great edge on the battlefield. Over the years, a number of local kite-making styles have been developed. The most famous styles come from the six "Kite Cities" in China: Beijing, Kaifeng, Tianjin, Weifang, Nantong, and Yangjiang. Weifang, where it is believed the first kite was made, promotes itself as the "Kite Capital of the World." It not only has the largest kite museum in the world, one that covers an area of 8,100 square meters, but also it hosts international kite-flying events. The local artisans in Beijing are said to be capable of making the most exquisite kites in all of China. Cao Xueqin, Jin Fuzhong, and Ha Changyin are reputed to be the three most famous local kite masters who developed three unique local styles. People like their kites for the great designs, vivid patterns, and light frames.  When shopping for kites in Beijing's shops, select the ones that are made of good materials and demonstrate a high level of craftsmanship. As far as the material goes, if you want to use your kite more as a decoration, you should choose one that is made of pure silk; if you want to use your kite mainly for flying, one that is made of nylon would be ideal for you. Kite frames are usually made of bamboo or metal. Remember to check the frame to see if it is broken or has cracks. Go with a personal shopping assistant in Beijing for professional advice. More information: Author A. Lao has studied Chinese culture and history for years. He now works with a Personal Shopper in Beijing who helps tourists find unique Chinese items. Sometimes he personally tailors personal shopping trips.
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