Introduction

Chinese culture and fine arts have a long, illustrious history that goes back thousands of years. Understanding these subjects in the Chinese language can help one better understand Chinese culture and be helpful when conversing with native speakers. This article will give you a basic framework for discussing numerous Chinese art and culture.

Basic Vocabulary

Start by familiarizing yourself with some basic vocabulary related to art and culture:

  • Art: 艺术 (yìshù)
  • Culture: 文化 (wénhuà)
  • History: 历史 (lìshǐ)
  • Painting: 画 (huà)
  • Sculpture: 雕塑 (diāosù)
  • Music: 音乐 (yīnyuè)
  • Literature: 文学 (wénxué)
  • Poetry: 诗 (shī)
  • Dance: 舞蹈 (wǔdǎo)
  • Museum: 博物馆 (bówùguǎn)
  • Exhibition: 展览 (zhǎnlǎn)

Discussing Chinese Art

Art in China is as old as the civilization itself. It covers various styles and subjects, from calligraphy and painting to ceramics and architecture. Here’s how you might discuss these forms:

  • Painting 国画 (guóhuà): “我喜欢中国的传统国画。” (Wǒ xǐhuān zhōngguó de chuántǒng guóhuà) – “I like traditional Chinese paintings”.
  • Calligraphy 书法 (shūfǎ): “书法是中国艺术的重要部分。” (Shūfǎ shì zhōngguó yìshù de zhòngyào bùfèn) – “Calligraphy is an important part of Chinese art”.
  • Sculpture 雕塑 (diāosù): “中国的石头雕塑非常独特。” (Zhōngguó de shítou diāosù fēicháng dútè) – “Chinese stone sculptures are very unique”.

Discussing Chinese Culture

Chinese culture is also a broad and deep topic, encompassing literature, philosophy, music, and cuisine. Here are some phrases that may come in handy:

  • Literature 文学 (wénxué): “我在读一本中国的古代小说。” (Wǒ zài dú yīběn zhōngguó de gǔdài xiǎoshuō) – “I am reading an ancient Chinese novel”.
  • Music音乐 (yīnyuè): “我喜欢听中国的传统音乐。” (Wǒ xǐhuān tīng zhōngguó de chuántǒng yīnyuè) – “I enjoy listening to traditional Chinese music”.

Asking Questions

When discussing art and culture, it is always good to ask questions. Here are a few that might be useful:

  • What kind of art do you like? 你喜欢什么样的艺术?(Nǐ xǐhuān shénme yàng de yìshù?)
  • Who is your favorite artist? 你最喜欢的艺术家是谁?(Nǐ zuì xǐhuān de yìshùjiā shì shéi?)
  • What is your favorite Chinese dish? 你最喜欢的中国菜是什么?(Nǐ zuì xǐhuān de zhōngguó cài shì shénme?)

By comprehending and using these words and phrases, you may have interesting and enlightening conversations about Chinese art and culture.

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Conclusion

Discussing art and culture in every language may lead to richer dialogues and greater understanding. The depth and breadth of China’s artistic and cultural past offer an enormously varied canvas to be explored within the context of the Chinese language. A crucial first step is to master the language and expressions linked to Chinese art and culture that are presented on this page. Your ability to communicate will improve, as will your understanding of China’s rich cultural heritage. Keep practicing and expanding your horizons because learning is a lifelong process that involves growth and expansion. You’ll be able to have more fruitful conversations, communicate your ideas clearly, and strengthen your relationships with Chinese speakers if you do this.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is it important to talk about art and culture in Chinese?

You can gain a deeper grasp of Chinese society, history, and traditions by discussing art and culture in Mandarin. Also, it creates opportunities for more exciting interactions with native speakers.

2. What are the key Chinese terms for different types of art?

Some key terms include painting (画, huà), sculpture (雕塑, diāosù), calligraphy (书法, shūfǎ), music (音乐, yīnyuè), and literature (文学, wénxué).

3. How do I say ‘museum’ in Chinese?

‘Museum’ in Chinese is ‘博物馆’ (bówùguǎn).

4. How can I learn more Chinese vocabulary related to art and culture?

Reading books, listening to music, watching films, going to museums, and having talks about art and culture in Chinese are all great ways to increase your vocabulary. Classes and applications for language learning might be useful as well.

Contact our head teacher Chen Huimin at info@lcchineseschool.com if you want to learn Chinese or have additional questions about our Chinese programs. 

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Introduction

The joy and happiness gardening may bring its participants transcends all cultural boundaries. Suppose you love gardening and are studying Mandarin Chinese. In that case, this book will help you increase your vocabulary and make it possible to talk about your favorite hobby in a foreign language. We’ll go through all the terminology you need to discuss this green-fingered pastime, from the most fundamental to the more specialized ones.

Basic Gardening Vocabulary

Here are some of the essential gardening words and phrases in Chinese, along with their pinyin to help with pronunciation:

Garden – Huāyuán (花园)

Plant – Zhíwù (植物)

Flower – Huā (花)

Tree – Shù (树)

Grass – Cǎo (草)

Leaf – Yèzi (叶子)

Soil – Tǔrǎng (土壤)

Seeds – Zhǒngzi (种子)

Watering – Jiāoshuǐ (浇水)

Pruning – Jiǎnzhi (剪枝)

Gardening Tools and Equipment

It’s also helpful to know the names of standard gardening tools and equipment in Chinese:

Gardening gloves – Yuányì shǒutào (园艺手套)

Shovel – Chuántǒu (铲头)

Hoe – Chúzi (锄子)

Rake – Pá (耙)

Watering can – Jiāoshuǐ píng (浇水瓶)

Wheelbarrow – Dān lún chē (单轮车)

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Phrases and Sentences

Finally, here are some sentences and phrases you can use while discussing gardening:

I love gardening – Wǒ ài yuányì. (我爱园艺。)

I am planting seeds – Wǒ zhèngzài bō zhǒng. (我正在播种。)

The flowers are blooming – Huā kāi le. (花开了。)

I am watering the plants – Wǒ zhèngzài jiāoshuǐ. (我正在浇水。)

We need to prune the trees – Wǒmen xūyào jiǎn shù. (我们需要剪树。)

You can communicate your love of gardening with those who speak Mandarin by learning and using this vocabulary and expressions specific to gardening. Remember that learning a language is a long process that requires patience and consistent practice, just like growing plants. Enjoy learning and gardening!

Contact our head teacher Chen Huimin at info@lcchineseschool.com if you want to learn Chinese or have additional questions about our Chinese programs. 

REGISTER for our SUMMER CAMP in 2023!

Learn about our Internship Program in China.

Learn about holidays in China in 2023.

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Introduction

In China, summer, or “夏天” (xiàtiān), is frequently characterized by soaring temperatures and an abundance of mouthwatering fruit. Chinese speakers often discuss a wide range of things when discussing summer, including the weather, outdoor activities, customary celebrations, and regional cuisine. Here is a list of topics you can bring up to talk about summer in Chinese.

Weather-Related Words and Phrases

    • Hot: 热 (rè)
    • It’s very hot: 天气非常热 (tiānqì fēicháng rè)
    • Sunny: 阳光明媚 (yángguāng míngmèi)
    • Heat wave: 热浪 (rè làng)
    • Humid: 潮湿 (cháoshī)

Summer Activities

    • Swimming: 游泳 (yóuyǒng)
    • Go to the beach: 去海边 (qù hǎibiān)
    • Traveling: 旅行 (lǚxíng)
    • Summer vacation: 暑假 (shǔjià)

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Summer Festivals

Several festivals mark summer in China. Here are two of the most significant:

  • Dragon Boat Festival: 端午节 (duānwǔ jié). This festival is celebrated with dragon boat races and zongzi (粽子), a traditional Chinese food made of glutinous rice stuffed with different fillings and wrapped in bamboo leaves.
  • Qixi Festival: 七夕节 (qīxī jié). Often referred to as Chinese Valentine’s Day, it falls on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month.

Summer Food and Drinks

    • Iced tea: 冷茶 (lěng chá)
    • Watermelon: 西瓜 (xīguā)
    • Mango: 芒果 (mángguǒ)
    • Cold noodles: 凉面 (liángmiàn)

Common Summer Sentences

    • 我喜欢夏天。 (wǒ xǐhuān xiàtiān) – I like summer.
    • 北京的夏天可能非常热 (Běijīng de xiàtiān kěnéng fēicháng rè) – The summer in Beijing can be very hot.
    • 我喜欢在夏天游泳 (wǒ xǐhuān zài xiàtiān yóuyǒng) – I like to swim in the summer.

Conclusion

Increasing your vocabulary and participating in more interesting conversations are facilitated by learning how to discuss the summer in Chinese. By practicing these terms and phrases, you can communicate more effectively with Chinese speakers about your summertime goals, preferences, and experiences.

Introduction

All languages include shopping and commerce as a fundamental component. Knowing the vocabulary for shopping and business is helpful if you’re studying Chinese. Below is a list of some of the most widely used Mandarin words for shopping and business.

Vocabulary

  1. Shopping – 购物 (gòuwù)
  2. Shop / Store – 商店 (shāngdiàn)
  3. Mall – 购物中心 (gòuwù zhōngxīn)
  4. Market – 市场 (shìchǎng)
  5. Price – 价格 (jiàgé)
  6. Cheap – 便宜 (piányi)
  7. Expensive – 贵 (guì)
  8. Discount – 折扣 (zhékòu)
  9. Sale – 销售 (xiāoshòu)
  10. Cash – 现金 (xiànjīn)
  11. Credit card – 信用卡 (xìnyòngkǎ)
  12. Online shopping – 网购 (wǎnggòu)
  13. Shopping cart – 购物车 (gòuwù chē)
  14. To buy – 买 (mǎi)
  15. To sell – 卖 (mài)
  16. Receipt – 收据 (shōujù)

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Example Sentences

    • 我喜欢购物。(Wǒ xǐhuān gòuwù.) – I like shopping.
    • 这个产品的价格很便宜。(Zhège chǎnpǐn de jiàgé hěn piányi.) – The price of this product is meager.
    • 商店今天有折扣。(Shāngdiàn jīntiān yǒu zhékòu.) – The store has a discount today.
    • 我想用信用卡支付。(Wǒ xiǎng yòng xìnyòngkǎ zhīfù.) – I want to pay by credit card.
    • 市场今天很拥挤。(Shìchǎng jīntiān hěn yōngjǐ.) – The market is very crowded today.
    • 她在线销售衣服。(Tā zàixiàn xiāoshòu yīfu.) – She sells clothes online.
    • 请给我收据。(Qǐng gěi wǒ shōujù.) – Please give me the receipt.

Remember, the best way to learn is to practice. Try using these words and phrases in your daily conversation, and you’ll be fluent in shopping and commerce in Chinese in no time.

Contact our head teacher Chen Huimin at info@lcchineseschool.com if you want to learn Chinese or have additional questions about our Chinese programs. 

REGISTER for our SUMMER CAMP in 2023!

Learn about our Internship Program in China.

Learn about holidays in China in 2023.

Get free Chinese learning resources.

Read about the Spring Festival Celebration on NRK’s ​​website: https://www.nrk.no/norge/harens-ar-1.16270652#top.

 

Introduction

Negation in Mandarin can occasionally appear to be a bewildering maze, especially when multiple negatives are present. Negative use is common in Chinese grammar, which is both rich and difficult. With a focus on the characters 不 (bù) and 没 (méi), this article seeks to provide a full grasp of how to use the double negatives in Chinese.

Understanding Chinese Negation

Before we delve into double negatives, it’s vital to understand the basic rules of negation in Chinese.

Chinese mainly uses two characters to express negation: 不 (bù) and 没 (méi).

  • 不 (bù) is the more general negative word often used to negate verbs and adjectives. It is commonly used in the present and future tenses.

 我不喜欢吃苹果。 (Wǒ bù xǐhuān chī píngguǒ.) – I do not like eating apples.

明天我不去上班。(Míngtiān wǒ búqù shàngbān.) – I won’t go to work tomorrow.

  • 没 (méi) is mostly used to negate past actions or states. It is commonly used with the verb 有 (yǒu) to express the non-existence or absence of something.

我没看过这部电影。 (Wǒ méi kànguò zhè bù diànyǐng.) – I have not seen this movie.

昨天我没去上班。(Zuótiān wǒ méi qù shàngbān.) – I didn’t go to work yesterday.

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Chinese Double Negation

Chinese double negatives behave differently from English double negatives. A double negative in English has a positive connotation.

The characters 不 (bù) and 没 (méi) are typically combined to form the double negative in Chinese. It can be interpreted as follows:

  • 不+verb+没: This structure emphasizes that an action has not been done or a state has not been achieved.

 我不走没问题。 (Wǒ bù zǒu méi wèntí.) – It’s not a problem if I don’t leave.

  • 没+verb+不: This structure is less common but is used to emphasize the certainty of a negative action or state.

没有不付出努力的成功。 (Méiyǒu bù fùchū nǔlì de chénggōng.) – There’s no success without effort.

Conclusion

Double negatives in Mandarin can initially seem challenging, mainly when used with the characters 不 (bù) and 没 (méi). Yet, learners can understand this feature of Chinese grammar if they clearly know how these negatives interact. Always keep in mind that, unlike in English, double negatives in Chinese do not imply a positive meaning; instead, they serve to emphasize the negative meaning.

Contact our head teacher Chen Huimin at info@lcchineseschool.com if you want to learn Chinese or have additional questions about our Chinese programs. 

REGISTER for our SUMMER CAMP in 2023!

Learn about our Internship Program in China.

Learn about holidays in China in 2023.

Get free Chinese learning resources.

Read about the Spring Festival Celebration on NRK’s ​​website: https://www.nrk.no/norge/harens-ar-1.16270652#top.

 

Introduction

The historic, winding lanes known as hutongs (胡同 – hútòng) are tucked away among the busy metropolises of Beijing, the capital of China, and many other cities. These areas provide tourists with a close-up view of daily life in traditional China while remaining hidden from the city’s tumultuous activity and towering buildings.

History of Hutongs

Since the Yuan Dynasty (元朝 – Yuán Cháo, 1271–1368), when the term “hutong,” originating from Mongolian and meaning “water well,” was first adopted, hutongs have been a fundamental part of northern Chinese cities.

The hutongs were developed in a unique architectural style characterized by their narrowness – typically not wider than a few meters. They are flanked by siheyuans (四合院 – sìhéyuàn), traditional residential compounds with houses on all four sides of a courtyard. The essence of hutong culture lies within these siheyuans, where multiple generations of a family often live together, reinforcing the Chinese values of family unity and communal living.

Exploring the Hutongs

Venturing into the labyrinthine hutongs can feel like stepping back in time. Here, residents continue to live in the manner of their ancestors, with local vendors selling their goods along the roadside, children playing traditional games in the alleyways, and elderly folks engaging in the ancient game of xiangqi (象棋 – xiàngqí) or Chinese chess. The air is often filled with the aromatic scent of homemade jiaozi (饺子 – jiǎozi) or dumplings, and the comforting sound of the Beijing dialect or Beijing-hua (北京话 – Běijīng huà) echoes through the alleyways.

Popular hutongs worth visiting include Nanluoguxiang (南锣鼓巷 – Nánluógǔxiàng), famous for its vibrant mix of old and new with trendy boutiques and cafes sitting alongside traditional shops, and the scenic Shichahai (什刹海 – Shíchàhǎi) area with its beautiful lakes and historic residences.

The Future of Hutongs

The hutongs have experienced serious risks from urban expansion despite their importance to culture. From the middle of the 20th century, numerous hutongs have been destroyed to make room for new construction, bringing the total number of hutongs down from over 3,000 in the 1950s to only a few hundred now.

The Chinese government has started safeguarding some hutongs while remodeling others to improve living conditions while preserving their historic appeal.

Conclusion

The hutongs offer a unique opportunity to experience traditional Chinese life amidst the rapid modernization of China’s cities. They embody the Chinese concept of ‘li shi xing zai’ (历史性在 – lìshǐ xìngzài), which translates to ‘history is here.’ Exploring these narrow alleyways and interacting with the local residents offers a tangible connection to China’s past and a deeper understanding of its vibrant, complex culture. Despite their challenges, the spirit of the hutongs endures, reminding us of the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the face of rapid urbanization.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Hutongs

What does “hutong” mean?

Hutong (胡同 – hútòng) is a term derived from Mongolian, meaning “water well.” Historically, communities were formed around shared water sources, hence the name.

When were hutongs built?

The origin of hutongs dates back to the Yuan Dynasty (元朝 – Yuán Cháo, 1271–1368). They’ve been an integral part of northern Chinese cities ever since.

What can I see in a hutong?

In a hutong, you can observe traditional Chinese life, including siheyuans (四合院 – sìhéyuàn), which are traditional residential compounds, local vendors selling their goods, children playing classic games, and elderly folks engaging in leisurely activities like Chinese chess.

What are some famous hutongs to visit?

Some of the popular hutongs include Nanluoguxiang (南锣鼓巷 – Nánluógǔxiàng), known for its blend of modern and traditional culture, and Shichahai (什刹海 – Shíchàhǎi), celebrated for its beautiful lakes and historic residences.

Are hutongs being preserved?

Yes, due to their cultural significance, many hutongs are being preserved. The Chinese government has designated certain hutongs as protected areas and is actively working to improve living conditions in others while maintaining their traditional charm.

What challenges do Hutongs face?

The primary challenge is urban development. Since the mid-20th century, many hutongs have been demolished to make way for modern infrastructure. However, efforts are being made to preserve and renovate these historic neighborhoods.

What local food can I try in Hutongs?

There are numerous local delicacies to try in the hutongs. One of the most common is jiaozi (饺子 – jiǎozi), or Chinese dumplings. Other local delicacies include baozi (包子 – bāozi), stuffed buns, and Beijing Roast Duck (北京烤鸭 – Běijīng kǎoyā).

REGISTER for our SUMMER CAMP in 2023!

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Read about the Spring Festival Celebration on NRK’s ​​website: https://www.nrk.no/norge/harens-ar-1.16270652#top.

Introduction

Feng Shui(风水fēng shuǐ), an ancient Chinese art, is much more than just a decorating idea. It has been a profound and complex part of Chinese culture for thousands of years. It is a tradition closely linked to Taoism and is based on the idea that the arrangement and orientation of space and objects can influence the flow of energy, or qi (气 qì), bringing about harmony, prosperity, and well-being. The ideas, methods, and history of feng shui will all be covered in this article.

A Historical Overview

Feng Shui’s origins trace back to ancient China, over 3000 years ago. Its early foundations are closely associated with the observation of celestial bodies. Ancient Chinese astronomers developed the ‘luo pan’ (罗盘 luó pán), a complex magnetic compass, to align buildings and other structures according to the directions of the stars and the earth’s magnetic field.

Taoist ideas, particularly the idea of Yin and Yang (阴阳 yīn yáng), were first included in Feng Shui during the Han Dynasty (206 BC–220 AD). The balance of these forces became a significant focus in Feng Shui since Yin and Yang stand for nature’s opposing and complementary elements.

The Principles of Feng Shui

Feng Shui operates on several fundamental principles: Qi, Yin-Yang, the Five Elements (五行 wǔ xíng), and the Bagua (八卦 bā guà).

Qi (气 qì)

At the heart of Feng Shui is the concept of Qi, the life-force energy that permeates the universe. In Feng Shui, it is believed that the arrangement of objects and spaces can influence the flow of Qi, with a harmonious flow bringing positive results and blocked or misdirected flow leading to adverse outcomes.

Yin-Yang (阴阳 yīn yáng)

The Yin-Yang theory describes how opposing forces in the universe are interconnected and interdependent. In Feng Shui, achieving the balance between Yin (dark, passive, receptive, and feminine) and Yang (light, active, giving, and masculine) is crucial for creating a harmonious and energizing space.

The Five Elements (五行wǔháng)

Feng Shui also incorporates the five elements – Wood (木 mù), Fire (火 huǒ), Earth (土 tǔ), Metal (金 jīn), and Water (水 shuǐ) – which are believed to interact with each other in productive and destructive cycles. Incorporating these elements into your space in a balanced manner is thought to foster a nourishing environment.

The Bagua (八卦bāguà)

The Bagua is a grid of nine sectors, each representing a different aspect of life (such as wealth, health, career, and relationships). The sectors also correspond to a specific direction, element, color, and living area. The Bagua map is used to analyze the energy of a space and make adjustments to promote positive Qi flow.

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Practical Application of Feng Shui

Feng shui application evaluates the constructed and natural settings, taking into account the presence and placement of water and plants as well as the size, form, and direction of buildings. For instance, a Feng Shui-inspired design would place the front entrance, known as the “mouth of Qi,” in a desirable position. The front and back doors would not be directly aligned since this would be thought to allow Qi to go through the space too quickly.

Other techniques include arranging a workspace to face a specific direction to increase productivity or positioning a bed in a dominant position to foster a sense of security.

Conclusion

Feng Shui offers a holistic approach to living, intertwining the physical environment with our emotional and spiritual aspects. This ancient wisdom suggests that by mindfully arranging our surroundings, we can cultivate an environment that fosters positivity, balance, and prosperity. While it’s an age-old practice, Feng Shui resonates in our contemporary world, reflecting a universal desire for harmony and well-being.

Contact our head teacher Chen Huimin at info@lcchineseschool.com if you want to learn Chinese or have additional questions about our Chinese programs. 

REGISTER for our SUMMER CAMP in 2023!

Learn about our Internship Program in China.

Learn about holidays in China in 2023.

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Read about the Spring Festival Celebration on NRK’s ​​website: https://www.nrk.no/norge/harens-ar-1.16270652#top.

Introduction

Chinese opera, also known as Zhōngguó xìqǔ (中国戏曲) in Mandarin, is a beloved art form that exemplifies Chinese culture. It creates a magnificent presentation by fusing music, theater, and art, bringing the audience on an exciting, multisensory trip.

With a rich history that has endured centuries, Chinese opera incorporates diverse components: the huà dàn (花旦), portraying beautiful and young female roles; the shēng (生), representing male characters; the chǒu (丑), showing comedic figures; and the jìng (净), depicting characters with painted faces. The complex interplay of these roles brought to life through detailed costumes, makeup, props, and physical performances, defines the dynamism of Chinese opera.

The Music Element

The music of Zhōngguó xìqǔ (中国戏曲) heavily relies on traditional Chinese instruments. The instruments’ tempo and rhythm often guide the actors’ movements on stage. Two instruments typically used in Beijing opera, known as jīngjù (京剧), are the jīng hú (京胡), a two-stringed fiddle, and the yángqín (扬琴), a hammered dulcimer.

The vocal styles vary significantly across the different regional opera genres. For instance, jīngjù features a distinct high-pitched vocal style known as xiāo shēng (小生). In contrast, in Yùjù (豫剧) or Henan opera, performers use a more profound, resonant vocal style.

The Drama Element

The narratives of Chinese opera draw heavily from historical events, folklore, and ancient Chinese literature, frequently featuring moral lessons, heroic tales, and romantic stories.

Moreover, the physical performances in Chinese opera, from acrobatics to martial arts, add an additional layer of drama. Actors are expected to master the technique of shū huǐ (疏挥), or the gestures and body movements, to communicate emotions effectively. This skill requires years of dedicated practice.

The Art Element

Every facet of a Chinese opera is an artwork – from the vibrant, intricate costumes to the elaborate, painted faces of the jìng (净) roles. Each color used in the facial makeup signifies a particular symbolism: for example, red symbolizes loyalty and bravery, white represents deceit, and gold and silver are used for gods and spirits.

Even the stage design in Chinese opera is a testament to this art form’s aesthetic precision and creativity, often serving as a silent storyteller that augments the dramatic performance.

In conclusion, Chinese opera, or Zhōngguó xìqǔ (中国戏剧), is a perfect blend of music, drama, and art that has preserved the cultural richness of China over centuries. Its vibrant performances are a testament to Chinese culture’s ingenuity and artistic spirit.

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Students have a rare chance to learn about Chinese opera during our summer camp. Students with a passion for learning about Chinese culture, history, art, Chinese porcelain, etc., ranging in age from 7 to 17, can enroll in the summer camp.

How long will the Chinese School Summer Camp last?

The camp will typically run from June 19 through August 7 in 2023, for nine weeks.

How frequently are lessons held throughout the nine weeks?

In the program, several classes are often held each week. Please get in touch with us or visit our website for more information about the class schedule.

Contact our head teacher Chen Huimin at info@lcchineseschool.com if you want to learn Chinese or have additional questions about our Chinese programs. 

REGISTER for our SUMMER CAMP in 2023!

Learn about our Internship Program in China.

Learn about holidays in China in 2023.

Get free Chinese learning resources.

Read about the Spring Festival Celebration on NRK’s ​​website: https://www.nrk.no/norge/harens-ar-1.16270652#top.

Introduction

A crucial idea known as “guānxì” (关系) originates in the diverse and complicated cultural landscape of China and is essential for managing both personal and professional life. Guānxì, which is frequently translated as “connections” or “relationships,” is a complex network of social ties and powerful connections that facilitate daily interactions and commercial activities in Chinese society.

What is Guānxì (关系)?

Guanxi (关系), a significant idea crucial for navigating both personal and professional life, originates in China’s diverse and complicated cultural landscape. Gunx, which is frequently translated as “connections” or “relationships,” is a complex web of powerful connections and social ties that facilitates daily interactions and business transactions in Chinese society.

In a larger context, guānxì关系 functions as a type of social currency and exerts a strong influence over decision-making, whether in the workplace or in private life. The quantity, quality, and utility of the connections inside the network determines the value of this social currency.

The Origins of Guānxì (关系)

guānxì has its roots in Confucianism, which places a strong emphasis on the concept of ‘rén仁,’ often known as humaneness or benevolence. Confucius emphasized the idea of harmonious relationships and respect for one another, urging followers to cherish and keep their connections. Confucianism’s Five Cardinal Relationships—those between a ruler and a subject, a father and a son, a husband and a wife, an older brother, and a younger brother, and between friends—emphasize the value of relationships in Chinese society.

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Building and Maintaining Guānxì (关系)

To build and maintain guānxì, one needs to grasp the concepts of “miànzi” (面子 – face or reputation), “rénqíng” (人情 – human sentiment or favor), and “bào” (报 – reciprocity).

Miànzi面子 pertains to a person’s social status and prestige. In guānxì, maintaining miànzi is crucial, as a loss of face can lead to diminished respect and weakened relationships.

Rénqíng人情 represents the emotional warmth and understanding extended from one person to another. It is amplified through acts of assistance, gift-giving, and the performance of favors, thereby contributing to the growth of rénqíng.

Bào报 embodies the principle of reciprocity. Guānxì is not a one-way street – the expectation is that favors or assistance are returned in kind. This mutual exchange of benefits helps to strengthen and maintain guānxì关系.

Guānxì (关系) in Business

Guānxì is a crucial component of the corporate world. Your guānxì network can significantly impact your success, whether you want to start a collaboration, investigate new possibilities, or expand your business in China.

An effective guānxì network can help navigate bureaucratic processes, find possible business partners, or gather market intelligence. Nonetheless, keep in mind that guānxì in a commercial setting still abides by the miànzi, rénqng, and bo tenets. guānxì’s core values continue to be the development of long-lasting, respectful, and mutually beneficial partnerships.

Conclusion

The ability to comprehend and master the art of guānxì (关系) opens up a world of possibilities in China, both personally and professionally. It is a concept that goes beyond networking and emphasizes long-lasting connections built on esteem and reciprocity. The significance of guānxì (关系) as a fundamental aspect of Chinese culture cannot be overstated.

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Mahjong, which is pronounced “májiàng” (麻將) in Mandarin, is a pillar of Chinese Culture that is intertwined profoundly into Chinese society and traditions. Mahjong, which began in the eastern provinces of China in the 19th century, has since developed into a symbol of Chinese social life and Culture.

Historical Background and Origins

Mahjong’s history is as colorful and complex as the challenging games it entails. The provinces of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai are thought to have given birth to the game in the 19th century. Many people believe that Mahjong descended from earlier card games, particularly mádiào (马吊), an old game played with a deck of 40 cards that was well-liked in the Qing Dynasty.

Mahjong experienced a rise in popularity and a global expansion during the 20th century. The game’s rules were standardized in the 1920s by an American traveler named Joseph Park Babcock, making it more approachable to Western audiences. Mahjong, however, was predominantly spread by Chinese immigrants, solidifying its position in Chinese diasporic Culture worldwide.

Rules and Gameplay

Mahjong is a game that beautifully marries strategy, skill, and a dash of luck. Typically involving four players seated around a square table, the game utilizes a set of 144 tiles. These tiles are split into suits, including bamboo (zhú – 竹), characters (wàn – 万), and dots (tóng – 筒), in addition to honor tiles like winds (fēng – 风) and dragons (lóng – 龙).

Players each begin with a hand of 13 tiles, and the goal is to form a “mahjong” – a winning hand consisting of four sets and a pair. A set can be a “pung” (pēng – 碰) – three identical tiles, a “chow” (chì – 吃) – three consecutive numbers in the same suit, or a “kong” (gàng – 杠) – four identical tiles.

The gameplay unfolds with players drawing and discarding tiles in succession until either a player assembles a winning hand or all the tiles are drawn, leading to a stalemate. The game’s complexity is derived from the various strategies employed in deciding which tiles to discard or retain, making Mahjong a truly fascinating game.

Cultural Significance

Mahjong is more than just a pastime. It embodies many aspects of Chinese philosophy and cultural ethos. In Chinese Culture, the four winds in Mahjong are representative of the four cardinal directions: North (běi – 北), South (nán – 南), East (dōng – 东), and West (xī – 西). Additionally, the three “dragons” symbolize Confucian cardinal virtues: Red for Benevolence (hóng zhōng – 红中), Green for Sincerity (fā cài – 发财), and White for Filial Piety (bái bǎn – 白板).

Beyond its philosophical implications, Mahjong is essential in Chinese social interactions. Many cities have mahjong parlors that serve as places for friends and family to congregate, socialize, and occasionally bet. It’s more than simply a game; it’s a social tradition that develops fellowship, conversation, and a sense of belonging.

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Global Impact and Influence

Mahjong has a significant global impact that goes far beyond China. Thanks to Chinese immigrants, the game has become popular in many nations, including the United States, Japan, and the Philippines. The game has evolved into variants specific to each location, including American Mahjong and Filipino pung.

Mahjong has recently become more widely used online and through mobile applications. Mahjong is now more accessible to a global audience because it is simpler for individuals to learn and play the game.

Conclusion

At its core, Mahjong mirrors Chinese Culture, which is rich in history, philosophy, and social customs. The essential beauty of the game resides in its capacity to unite players, even though the tiles, rules, and strategies add to its interest. Despite being a game, Mahjong serves as a cultural touchstone, a link that millions of people, whether they live in China’s thriving cities or halfway around the world, use to connect to the rich tapestry of Chinese Culture. Mahjong continued to resound the heartbeat of Chinese heritage over the globe in the clatter of moved tiles and shared laughter.

FAQ

1. How many people can play Mahjong?

Four players often play Mahjong. However, other iterations of the game support three or five players.

2. Is Mahjong a game of luck or skill?

Mahjong is a game that combines both luck and skill. While the drawing of tiles involves luck, a player’s strategy in assembling sets and choosing which tiles to discard requires considerable skill.

3. Are the rules of Mahjong the same everywhere?

No, the rules can differ significantly depending on the region. For instance, American Mahjong, Japanese riichi, and Hong Kong mahjong have unique rules.

4. Is mahjong only a gambling game?

Mahjong is frequently linked to gambling, particularly in movies and popular culture, yet it can be played for fun without betting. Many people participate in it because it promotes conversation and intellectual challenge.

5. Can I play Mahjong online?

Yes, you may play Mahjong with players worldwide on various online platforms and mobile apps. These online distribution channels have also been crucial in getting the game in front of new players.

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