Chinese mythology: basics

In short: Chinese mythology combines elements of Taoism, Confucianism, Buddhism, and much older folk beliefs into a complex system of gods, spirits, and legendary rulers. Dragons and the afterlife play a central role.

In more detail: Many myths explain the origin of the world, cultural achievements, or dynastic rule.

In detail

• Pangu: The creation myth tells how the giant Pangu separated heaven and earth, and through his death shaped the world.
• Dragons: Unlike in Western mythologies, Chinese dragons represent luck, power, and imperial authority rather than evil.
• Jade Emperor: As the highest deity in the Taoist pantheon, he rules over heaven, earth, and the underworld.
• Eight Immortals: This group of legendary figures embodies various aspects of wisdom and luck in folk belief.
• Moon goddess Chang’e: Her story is especially celebrated during the Mid-Autumn Festival with mooncakes.
• Ancestor worship: Deceased ancestors are seen as influential spirits to be respected, not distant mythical figures.
• Zodiac signs: The Chinese zodiac of twelve animals is based on its own mythological race origin story (japanische-mythologie-grundlagen, konfuzianismus-grundlagen).