Exploring the Mythological Fairies of Ancient China: Five Famous Folklore Figures
There are several mythological fairies in ancient Chinese folklore, but here are four well-known ones:
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Zhinü: Also known as the "Weaving Maid" or "Vega," Zhinü is a fairy who falls in love with a mortal cowherd named Niulang. They marry and have children, but are separated by the goddess of heaven because their love is forbidden. However, they are allowed to meet once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month when magpies form a bridge over the Milky Way for them to cross.
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Xiwangmu: Also known as the "Queen Mother of the West," Xiwangmu is a powerful fairy who rules over the mystical Kunlun Mountains in western China. She is associated with immortality, longevity, and healing, and is often depicted holding a peach of immortality.
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Nuwa: Nuwa is a goddess who is often depicted as a half-human, half-snake figure. She is credited with creating humans and repairing the sky after a great disaster. Nuwa is associated with fertility, creation, and the balance of yin and yang.
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Bai Mudan: Also known as the "White Peony Fairy," Bai Mudan is a beautiful fairy who is said to have the power to bring happiness and good fortune to those who see her. She is often depicted holding a white peony, which is a symbol of love and romance.
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Chang'e: Chang'e is a fairy who is associated with the moon. She is said to have drunk an elixir of immortality and floated up to the moon, where she lives with her pet rabbit. She is often depicted holding a moon-shaped object or standing on a crescent moon.
These fairy figures have played important roles in Chinese mythology and are still celebrated and honored today in various festivals and traditions.
