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The dragon is the symbol of the Chinese nation. Boats are made in the shape of dragons by Chinese people of va-rious ethnic groups. Dragon-boat contests are popular in southern areas with many rivers and lakes.
Kites were invented in ancient China, the earliest man-made aircraft in the world. Kites made in Beijing, Tianjin, Weifang in Shandong Province and Nantong in Jiangsu Province are unique in their styles and famous all over the world. On April 1 every year, the Kite Festival is held in Weifang. Kite lovers from all over the world come here to share their enthusiasm for kites and strengthen ties of friendship.
Yangge is a kind of folk dance accompanied by music with strongly accented rhythms. It is popular in many areas of north China. Nowadays, it is a keep-fit activity. It is especially popular among middle-aged and elderly women.
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| Team members having fun after an international dragon boat race held in Fujian. |
Weiqi originated in China, and was already a popular game during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods. Then it found its way to Japan, Korea, and European and American countries. After the founding of New China, it was listed as a competitive sports event.
Wushu, or martial arts, has been practiced for several thousand years by people in China for physical training and self-defense. It is practiced in various types of set exercises, either empty-handed or with weapons.
Taijiquan is a branch of Chinese martial arts with a history of three or four hundred years. It grew out of the health maintenance exercises of ancient Taoism combined with the theories of yin and yang and main and collateral channels. It originated in Chenjiagou in Wenxian County, Henan Province. There are different schools, including the Chen style, Yang style, Wu style and Sun style. In this art it is essential that the mind guide the body’s movements and, at the same time, follow the body’s graceful, gentle and firm movements.
Qigong, with a history of several thousand years, is a unique system of exercises aimed at controlling the mind and regulating the breath to keep fit, live long, overcome disease, and strengthen the physiological functions. Wushu and qigong have won followers all over the world.
Sports meets of national minorities are held regularly in China.
